Across the Country: October 10th, 2024

Florida has been hit by two massive hurricanes in under two weeks. Across the Country Hello, {NAME}! Welcome back to Across the Country, our weekly series at No Dem Left Behind! We’re diving into the most pressing issues impacting the heartland of America as the 2024 election approaches. These are the stories that actually matter to our communities. Let’s stay informed, together. –Daniela Rodriguez Florida Florida is getting hit by extreme hurricanes. Prior to Hurricane Milton, two other hurricanes shook Floridians earlier this year, leaving many stranded and financially overwhelmed. Tornadoes were reported across Florida resulting in 4 devastating casualties prior to Hurricane Milton. Destructive wind caused power outages for more than [3 million people]( in the state. [Wind gusts of 100 mph]( were recorded, so intense that makeshift shelters for first responders have collapsed. This category 3 storm impacted West Central Florida with 10 ft storms– with millions ordered to evacuate immediately. “Hurricane Helene, followed by Hurricane Milton, has shifted my perspective on the people most vulnerable, those who don’t have the privilege to evacuate amid all the chaos and devastation. As a Florida transplant, I can’t help but seriously worry for families and elderly folk who cannot leave the area. What Florida needs most right now is the utmost support and a solid recovery plan that will protect native residents and rebuild our communities,” says Imogene Dunn, a local Floridian. As communities were pulling together resources to combat the aftermath of Helene, Milton swiftly came in and left many feeling helpless. These back to back hurricanes mark a frightening reality that climate change is in full effect and has shown up in unprecedented ways. Our thoughts go out to all the families and communities who’ve been affected. NDLB believes it is time to put climate change and our vulnerable communities at the forefront of this election. We need leadership who admits to the harsh realities of this climate crisis and actively works to alleviate it. The Florida Senate Race has introduced two candidates with vastly different opinions on climate change. Republican candidate Rick Scott has banned the word "climate change” from state agencies as governor, whereas Democratic candidate Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, has proactively assembled plans for climate-resilient infrastructure. Florida Atlantic University reported that 90% of Floridians believe climate change is happening, with 68% of respondents calling on the state government to DO SOMETHING about it. NDLB supports this call to action, and we urge Floridians to do the same by using their 15th amendment right and VOTE this upcoming election cycle. Join us next week with Sabrina for the latest updates on nationwide breaking news. Make sure to stay informed with NDLB! And if you would like to help with the hurricane relief efforts, click the button below. [Save Our Democracy Hurricane Relief Fund]( -Daniela Rodriguez Be sure to follow and share on social media! This is how we spread the word and make a real impact on every election for every Democrat. No Dem Left Behind PAC P.O. Box 15320 Washington, D.C. 20003 You are subscribed to this email as {EMAIL}. Click here to modify your [preferences]( or [unsubscribe](.