Sen. Rick Scott Calls for Spending Cuts, Debt Action in Latest 'Rescuing America' Push

U.S. Senator Rick Scott released a video today calling on Congress to cut spending and tackle the nation's $40 trillion debt, arguing that both Democrats and Republicans share responsibility for fiscal irresponsibility.

In the video, part of his "Rescuing America" project, Scott criticized what he called wasteful earmarks and said the federal government has become "completely unaccountable to taxpayers." He linked government spending to inflation and rising costs for housing, healthcare, and groceries, saying the national debt is "the leading reason why everything costs you so much more."

Scott's "Rescuing America" initiative centers on three stated goals: balancing the federal budget, cutting government regulations, and creating private-sector jobs. The senator has previously released videos on healthcare reform and homeownership as part of the broader campaign.

UWF Police Chief Among 19 Florida Criminal Justice Leaders Graduating Executive Seminar

Chief Roman Jackson of the University of West Florida Police Department is among 19 criminal justice leaders from across Florida who have completed an intensive three-week executive training program designed to prepare them for top leadership roles.

The graduates finished the Chief Executive Seminar, Class 59, run by the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute, which operates within the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The program, established by the Florida Legislature in 1990, brings together criminal justice executives for coursework covering emerging challenges including future trends, social media management, stress management, succession planning, and trust-based leadership.

The seminar participants represent 17 agencies statewide. Beyond UWF, the class included leaders from the Broward Sheriff's Office, Florida Highway Patrol, Seminole County Sheriff's Office, Polk County Sheriff's Office, and departments of corrections and juvenile justice, among others. The institute is affiliated with the State University System and offers multi-disciplinary education aimed at strengthening Florida's criminal justice leadership pipeline.

George Stone Technical College launches endowed scholarship in Stone family name

George Stone Technical College and Escambia County Public Schools will hold a ceremony today to formally announce the George G. and Pattie O. Stone Endowed Scholarship Fund, a permanent endowment established through an anonymous donation to support students at the technical college.

The fund honors the Stone family's historical contributions to career and technical education in Northwest Florida. According to a press release from the school district, the ceremony—themed "A Legacy of Opportunity"—will include members of the Stone family, students, faculty, staff, district leadership, and other invited guests. The event will recognize the institution's history while highlighting what organizers say will be a transformational investment for future generations of George Stone Technical College students.

"This event is an opportunity to celebrate where George Stone Technical College came from while also looking toward its future," said Stephen Brooks, principal of the college. "The Stone name has represented opportunity in this community for generations. This endowment will ensure that legacy continues by helping future students pursue the education and training that can transform their lives."

George Stone Technical College, which traces its roots to vocational and technical education initiatives launched more than 50 years ago, currently prepares students for careers in high-demand fields and supports workforce development across Northwest Florida.