Imagine you were to challenge a passerby on the street with a word-association game and ask for the first word that comes to mind when they hear the word “Florida.” Not surprisingly, the word “gator” would be a common answer. Why? Because, over thirty percent of the State of Florida is wetlands, most of it freshwater, the perfect habitat for that amazing reptilian predator, a creature well adapted to the swamp.
However, if you were to start a new survey on the street offering the word “swamp” for a first reaction, many would not conjure the word “gator,” but rather, “Washington, D.C.” Why? Because at the forefront of many peoples’ minds in this crazy political climate is the drama that has been unfolding a thousand miles to the north in a dysfunctional city that is home to a dysfunctional legislative body.
“The Swamp” is now a metaphor for all that is wrong with this country. There are millions of Floridians who would much rather be sharing their home with our native reptiles than living with the consequences created by the reptiles in D.C.
Unlike the national scenario, Floridians are blessed with rational political leadership. We have an esteemed body of successful citizens that convenes in Tallahassee for a 60-day whirlwind of activity to be good stewards of our state’s resources and to find solutions for the significant problems plaguing its people.
Historic Effort
Ten years ago our legislators took the first steps in a process provided by our founders in the US Constitution to create some crucial course corrections for this nation that are long overdue. In 2014, the Florida State Legislature passed SM 476, a resolution to call for an Article V Convention of States. They also saw fit to assemble the Article V Working Group for the purpose of drafting legislation that would guide and support the process of effectively participating in an Article V Convention of States.
History will prove that this fortuitous effort was a positive first step in a long arduous process to restore power that has been rightfully granted to the states. However, that power continues to be usurped through a series of unfortunate decisions and lack of adherence to our beloved US Constitution.
Floridians for a Convention of States must show appreciation for our legislators continued support by being a positive influence on their constituents. We do this by educating others about the role of legislators and fostering an appreciation for good statesmanship that can often be observed in Tallahassee. Our mission is to teach the value of self-governance and reinforce the understanding that it requires a strong relationship between the citizens and those elected to represent them.
What have you done lately to show your appreciation?
While always watchful to defend against any effort to rescind our resolution, COS volunteers’ time is also well spent in following the important and sometimes controversial bills being deliberated. Understanding the legislative challenges faced during a session is an important part of being an informed, responsible constituent. We can then offer constructive feedback for making important decisions on our behalf.
The COS Florida family believes in the importance of forging relationships with our esteemed legislators. It is our goal as a state team to establish and maintain a legacy of appreciation and support for all those who engage in legislative and constitutional processes that make this state and this nation exceptional.
Help us to restore the appreciation and respect for our United States Constitution that it so richly deserves by exemplifying the principles of self-governance which it was designed to protect.
Get to know your local representatives and convince them that their time and attention do not go unnoticed.
Attend your own county's Legislative Delegation Meeting.
Join COS for the Rally in Tally February 20, 2024.
