A.G. Gancarski
In Jacksonville Monday to unveil his latest endorsement from the National Federation of Independent Businesses, Gov. Rick Scott had to answer for President Donald Trump‘s performance in a summit meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
Gov. Scott joined the chorus of critics, though he did not mention the President by name.
“Putin is not our friend. Putin is not our ally. I don’t trust Putin. It clearly appears that Russia tried to meddle in our election,” Scott said.
“That’s why I’ve added more counter-terrorism experts at Secretary of State. Why I’ve made sure the federal money that came down, that could go to our Supervisors of Elections, got out as quickly as we can,” Scott said.
“As a Senator,” Scott continued, “I’m not going to trust Putin. I’m never going to consider him an ally. And I’m going to be very skeptical of anything he says.”
Scott would not take the bait when asked if Trump’s posture of submission compromised the United States, repeating the above points in bullet form.
Sen. Bill Nelson noted the omission of criticism of Trump Monday evening: “Today, Donald Trump sided with Putin over the people of the United States. And, once again, Rick Scott has refused to stand up to his pal, Donald Trump – now on an issue that puts our national security at risk. Floridians need a senator who will stand up to Trump, especially when our democracy is under attack, and Rick Scott’s refusal is just another reminder that he’s only looking out for himself.”
