Florida Democrats host town halls in GOP districts

Florida Democrats held town halls across the state this weekend as part of a national campaign called "People's Town Halls." This initiative aims to reach out to voters and discuss their concerns, especially where Republican representatives have not been present. Nikki Fried, chair of the Florida Democratic Party, emphasizes the importance of leaders listening to their constituents during what she calls a "constitutional crisis." Many attendees voiced frustration about the disconnect between Washington politics and local issues. Fried urged both Democrats and Republicans to engage with their communities. At a town hall in Clearwater, constituents addressed a "missing" poster of Republican Rep. Ana Paulina Luna. They expressed dissatisfaction with her absence and raised concerns regarding President Trump's policies. Some conservatives criticized the use of the posters as inauthentic and tasteless. Republican leaders defended their representatives, stating they are doing their jobs in Congress. They criticized the town halls as "fake" and "childish." For instance, GOP Chair Evan Power noted the insensitivity of a "missing" poster for Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart shortly after his brother's funeral. Fried responded to the Republican complaints by asserting that these town halls reflect genuine issues faced by everyday people. She argued that it is vital for elected officials to confront uncomfortable conversations and be transparent with constituents about their actions in Washington. The Democratic National Committee announced plans to hold similar events nationwide, targeting Republican lawmakers who have avoided in-person meetings with voters. They believe this effort will help amplify the voices of working families who feel ignored.