The Patriot Post: Early September Issue 2025

August in Review: Bold Action and Strong Leadership from Washington.

As summer winds down, the Trump Administration has kept a strong pace of decisive action through the second half of August. President Trump signed executive orders rolling back cashless bail policies in Washington, D.C., and across the nation, reasserting law and order as a cornerstone of public safety. On the economic front, the White House announced a nearly $9 billion federal investment securing a 10% stake in Intel, aimed at strengthening America’s semiconductor production and technological independence. In foreign trade, the administration pushed tariffs on Indian imports up to 50%, citing national security concerns tied to Russia, marking one of the most aggressive trade moves of the term.

Meanwhile, the public health arena saw major shake-ups as the President dismissed CDC Director Susan Monarez, triggering high-profile resignations from senior officials and signaling a sweeping overhaul of the agency. Together, these moves reflect a White House advancing a bold agenda: restoring law and order at home, protecting American industry, defending national security through strong trade policy, and reshaping federal institutions to align with the administration’s priorities. Looking ahead, don’t forget to join us for our upcoming General Meeting and Club Meeting—your voice and participation keep our movement strong.

In Appreciation: A Patriot Who Gave So MuchGene Perez, a proud California Reagan Republican, was a dedicated member of both the FCREC and the Flagler Republican Club for more than ten years. Gene had a remarkable gift for organization. His knowledge and experience were instrumental in launching REC reporting, and as Audit Committee Chairman, he provided constructive improvements to our bookkeeping and reporting processes. Many of his recommendations have since been adopted by the Board, strengthening our membership reporting and financial accountability.

Chairman Perry Mitrano had the privilege of speaking with Gene recently. He gave a final farewell and expressed his wish to leave the hospital and spend his final days at home with hospice care and his loved ones.

Please keep Gene and the Perez family in your prayers

August in Review: Bold Action and Strong Leadership from Washington

The final weeks of August have underscored the Trump Administration’s commitment to bold, decisive action across multiple fronts—law and order, economic security, trade, public health, and federal reform. From August 10 through August 30, the White House moved quickly to implement new policies that directly impact American communities and strengthen the nation’s position at home and abroad.

On August 25, President Trump signed a series of executive orders aimed squarely at reversing the trend of cashless bail systems. Starting with Washington, D.C., and extending nationwide, these orders make federal funding contingent on the restoration of monetary bail, ensuring that violent offenders are not released back onto the streets while awaiting trial. The administration framed this move as a return to common sense public safety, restoring accountability and reinforcing the principle that protecting American families must come first.

Economic independence also remained a top priority. On August 22, the Trump Administration announced that the federal government had secured a nearly $9 billion investment in Intel, amounting to a 10% ownership stake. The move, financed through the CHIPS Act and defense allocations, is intended to guarantee America’s leadership in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing. Supporters hailed the investment as a landmark in securing critical supply chains, while some fiscal conservatives questioned government involvement in the private sector. Nevertheless, the administration made clear that keeping America at the forefront of technology and industry is a matter of national security.

Trade policy was equally forceful. On August 27, tariffs on Indian imports were raised to 50% following concerns about India’s continued reliance on Russian oil. The administration’s stance is clear: American trade policy must reflect American interests and hold other nations accountable when their actions undermine U.S. security. While critics warned of potential strain on U.S.-India relations, the White House emphasized that protecting American workers and addressing global threats takes precedence over short-term diplomatic discomfort.

The administration also confronted challenges within the realm of public health. A major shake-up at the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) unfolded when President Trump dismissed Director Susan Monarez, prompting a wave of high-profile resignations among senior staff. The firings, coupled with calls for broad reform, reflect the administration’s determination to realign public health agencies with the policy priorities of the American people. Supporters view the changes as long overdue, ensuring that unelected bureaucrats are accountable to elected leadership.

Taken together, these actions illustrate a White House intent on delivering results: restoring order to American streets, strengthening U.S. industry, defending our nation through strong trade policy, and demanding accountability from federal institutions. August was a month of bold steps, each designed to secure America’s future in an increasingly uncertain world. The message from Washington is clear—President Trump is pressing forward with the agenda that voters elected him to deliver.

Florida Statewide Highlights

• Sales Tax Holiday RevampUnder HB 7031, Florida has introduced a permanent back-to-school sales tax holiday from August 1–31 and a new Hunting, Fishing & Camping holiday running from September 8 to December 31. The reforms are part of a $1.3 billion tax-cut package in the state’s $117 billion budget, aimed at easing inflation and offering relief to families.

• Controversial Crosswalk MandateThe state has ordered the removal of rainbow crosswalks and LGBTQ+ public art from roadways, saying such symbols conflict with public safety standards and lack ideological neutrality. Cities, including Fort Lauderdale and Miami Beach, are resisting, threatening legal action, and risking loss of transportation funding to preserve inclusive public art. This is a safety issue, and public crosswalks are not places for activism.

• Restrictions on Ballot InitiativesCampaign and advocacy groups have asked a federal judge to expand an injunction against new restrictions on citizen-led ballot initiatives in Florida. The law imposes tougher rules on petition gathering, shorter timelines, felony penalties, and fines, prompting legal challenges over First Amendment and democratic access concerns. The governor has vowed to fight back and make sure the Florida ballot initiatives are brought forward by Floridians 

• Age Verification Enforcement in LitigationFlorida’s Attorney General has sued five pornography websites for ignoring the state’s age verification law, HB 3. Despite prior warnings, the platforms failed to implement the required safeguards, prompting legal action to protect minors from explicit content. Another example of the Florida commitment to law and order.

Flagler County Developments

• Federal Flood Control SupportThe U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and FEMA have provided approximately $8.8 million to Flagler County for rebuilding dunes from Mala Compra Road to Marineland. Congressman Randy Fine's advocacy helped secure these funds, essential for long-term coastal protection and resilience.

• Major Development Approved in BunnellIn a notable reversal, the Bunnell City Commission approved the Haw Creek Reserve development—an expansive 6,100-home project, likely to increase the city’s population significantly over the coming decades.

• Infrastructure and Recreation Updates

  • The Wadsworth Skate Park reopened on August 22 after closure for maintenance.

  • The Flagler Central Commerce Parkway officially opened, enhancing transportation and economic prospects in the region.

  • A new pedestrian hybrid beacon was installed on A1A at South 3rd Street in Flagler Beach to improve safety and alert drivers to crossing pedestrians.

Summary

Florida is advancing sweeping policy shifts—from tax relief and education reforms to cultural protections and civil liberties defense. Meanwhile, Flagler County is seeing momentum in infrastructure, development, and coastal resilience efforts—balanced by serious community concerns and grief. Let me know if you'd like deeper coverage on any of these, plus upcoming community or legislative updates!

Volunteer Call: Help Keep Flagler Red at First Fridays, Creekside Festival & More

The fight to keep Flagler County red begins at the grassroots—and we need YOU on the front lines. Every First Friday of the month from 5–9 PM at Veterans Park in Downtown Flagler Beach, FlaglerGOP sets up to connect with local residents, register new Republican voters, and help people request their mail-in ballots.

This work is crucial. Right now, Democrats in Flagler County are outpacing Republicans in mail-in ballot requests by over 500 ballots. We cannot afford to let them get the upper hand. First Fridays give us a powerful opportunity to talk with our neighbors, expand our voter rolls, and ensure every Republican has the tools to vote.

Upcoming: 20th Annual Creekside Festival

In addition to First Fridays, we are calling on all hands for the 20th Annual Creekside Festival at Princess Place, October 4–5. This family-friendly event draws thousands of attendees, and it’s one of the best opportunities we have each year to spread the word, sign up new Republicans, and get ahead of the Democrats on mail-in ballot requests. With your help, we can make a real impact and strengthen our Republican majority in Flagler County.

Looking Ahead: 2025 Flagler Home & Lifestyle Show

We’re also preparing for another major outreach opportunity—the 2025 Flagler Home & Lifestyle Show, March 28–29, 2026. This large community event will allow us to reach even more Flagler residents, share our message, and continue our efforts to register voters and promote Republican participation. We will be calling on volunteers and supporters to step up and represent FlaglerGOP throughout this two-day event.

Stay Connected with FlaglerGOP

Your involvement is the key to victory in 2026. Visit the FlaglerGOP website calendar to stay up-to-date on all meetings and upcoming events. There, you’ll also find opportunities to RSVP, reserve tickets, or purchase them directly.

Together, we will register more Republicans, mobilize more voters, and keep Flagler County red.

Save the Date: FlaglerGOP Oktoberfest – October 18th

Mark your calendars and get ready to raise a stein! On Saturday, October 18th, the FlaglerGOP will host our annual Oktoberfest Celebration—a night filled with delicious food, great friends, and lively festivities. This is one of the most anticipated events of the season, and it’s the perfect way for our Republican family to come together in fellowship and fun as we gear up for the all-important 2026 election season.

Expect a festive atmosphere with the sights, sounds, and flavors of autumn. From hearty seasonal dishes and spirited entertainment to the camaraderie of like-minded patriots, Oktoberfest promises to be a celebration you won’t want to miss. Whether you come for the food, the fellowship, or the opportunity to strengthen our conservative movement, this evening will have something for everyone.

Save the date—October 18th—and join us for a night of unity, laughter, and celebration!

Get Your Tickets Now for the September 10th General Meeting!

The FlaglerGOP is excited to announce that free tickets for our September 10th General Meeting are now available online HERE.

Securing your ticket is quick and simple—especially if you’re a member with a login to the FlaglerGOP Member Portal. The process takes just seconds, and it makes a big difference in improving your meeting experience.

Here’s why we’ve implemented this new ticketing policy:

Enhanced Security – Tickets help us keep our meetings safe and secure for all members and guests. Faster Check-In – No more 30-minute bottleneck at the sign-in sheet! With a ticket, you’ll breeze right in. Accurate Information – Digital tickets ensure guest names and contact info are legible, so we can stay connected with the right emails and addresses. Plan Ahead – You can even grab your ticket for the October meeting right now HERE, getting it out of the way early!

We appreciate your cooperation in making this policy a success. It’s designed with you in mind—to make every FlaglerGOP meeting smoother, safer, and more informative.

Don’t wait—reserve your free tickets today and join us for another great evening of fellowship and conservative action on September 10th!

Next General Meeting – September 10th

Our next FCREC General Meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 10th at the Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Pkwy NE, Palm Coast, FL 32137. Social time begins at 5:30 PM, and the meeting will start promptly at 6:00 PM. These meetings are a great way to stay informed on the latest local and national political issues, connect with fellow conservatives, and get involved in our efforts to keep Florida red. We encourage all members to attend!

Candidate Spotlights at the Upcoming FlaglerGOP Meeting

We are excited to announce that our next FlaglerGOP meeting will feature two special guests who will each deliver a 5-minute “Tell Me About Yourself” (TMAY) presentation. These TMAYs give our members the opportunity to hear directly from candidates seeking to represent our values and lead with conservative principles.

Joining us this month:

• Arron Baker, candidate for U.S. Congressional District 6

• Dr. Frank Collige, candidate for Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

This is a valuable opportunity for FlaglerGOP members to learn more about the candidates, their vision, and their plans to defend our conservative values in Washington and Tallahassee.

Be sure to attend, stay informed, and help us strengthen Republican leadership across Florida and beyond.

Fundraising Update: Building Momentum for 2026

The 2026 election season is right around the corner, and FlaglerGOP is already working hard to ensure that Republicans are registered, energized, and ready to win. Everything we do is centered on our mission: register Republicans, get strong Republicans elected, and raise the resources needed to make it happen.

That’s why we’re excited to share the latest fundraising initiatives now underway:

The Patriots’ Glock Sweepstakes

Tickets are officially on sale for the Patriots’ Glock Sweepstakes! For just a $20 donation per ticket, you’ll be entered for a chance to win a brand-new Glock. The winning ticket will be drawn at the November REC meeting—but don’t wait until the last minute. Tickets are going fast, and every entry helps fuel our efforts to register new Republican voters and keep Flagler red.Get Tickets HERE

The FlaglerGOP Call Center Fundraiser

To run successful campaigns in 2026, we need the tools to reach voters effectively. That’s why we’re launching the FlaglerGOP Call Center Fundraiser. Funds raised will go toward building a dedicated phone banking operation, giving our volunteers the ability to contact thousands of voters across Flagler County.

This call center will be a critical piece of the puzzle in mobilizing Republicans, turning out voters, and ensuring victory at every level of government.Donate NOW

Your support makes the difference. Whether you purchase Glock sweepstakes tickets, contribute directly to the Call Center Fundraiser, or volunteer your time, you are helping us fulfill our mission and strengthen Republican victories in 2026.

Together, we can register more Republicans, support strong candidates, and deliver wins up and down the ballot.

Flagler County Republican Club – September Meeting

The Flagler County Republican Club invites members and guests to join us for our next monthly meeting on Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025, at the Hilton Garden Inn, 50 Town Center Blvd, Palm Coast, Florida 32164. This month’s program promises to be both informative and engaging, with a special focus on an important issue close to home.

The evening begins with a Social Hour from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., offering an opportunity to connect with fellow Republicans, enjoy refreshments, and strengthen the bonds of fellowship that drive our mission forward. The formal meeting will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m., featuring special guest speaker Amy Carotenuto, Executive Director of the Flagler Humane Society. Ms. Carotenuto will share insights about the Humane Society’s mission, the challenges they face, and their vital role in serving the people and animals of Flagler County.

All are encouraged to attend and take part in an evening of community, conversation, and civic engagement. Whether you are a long-time member or new to the Republican Club, this is an excellent chance to stay informed, support local leadership, and hear firsthand about efforts making a difference in Flagler County.