Scott Powers
Republican Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis is launching the first digital ad of his election campaign emphasizing his role in getting expanded mental health benefits for first responders, and showing them expressing tearful appreciation for his efforts.
The 30-second spot, “First Responders,” begins with Patronis at a March news conference with Gov. Rick Scott, Attorney General Pam Bondi and others as he lauds passage of Senate Bill 376, which allows law enforcement officers, firefighters and other first responders to collect Workers’ Compensation benefits for post-traumatic stress disorder and related mental health problems.
The ad features comments from Megan Vila, who tragically lost her brother, a firefighter, who died by suicide; Tampa Fire Rescue Capt. Ricardo Vila; and PTSD advocate Deborah Ortiz; all expressing appreciation for Patronis’ role, as the state fire marshal, in passing the bill, which was introduced by Democratic Sen. Lauren Book and backed by a bipartisan group of co-sponsors.
“Jimmy has the biggest heart, and he believes in our heroes,” Megan Vila says, emotionally.
“Jimmy Patronis definitely understands us first responders,” adds Capt. Vila.
“This legislation that Jimmy Patronis has fought for is going to help save lives,” Ortiz adds.
The ad concludes with Scott saying: “Jimmy Patronis is the individual that we all admire — that you tell him a problem; he’s going to be there.”
Patronis, appointed by Scott to the vacant CFO position last year, is seeking his first election to the post. He has token opposition in the Republican primary and expects a showdown in November with former state Sen. Jeremy Ring.
“I’m proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish for Florida’s first responders,” Patronis stated in a campaign news release. “I will keep up the fight to ensure that these brave men and women have all the resources they need as they continue protecting Floridians.”
