Domestic violence is one of the most devastating crises facing American families. It destroys homes, shatters childhoods, and leaves long-term wounds that our current system is not equipped to address. The recent story of a Palm Beach County mother working eighteen-hour days after escaping abuse is not uncommon. It reflects what far too many families are living through.
Domestic violence has no place in America. And it must never have a place in Florida. That is non-negotiable.
This mother fled for her life. Yet the moment she broke free, she entered a new fight. She faced trauma, financial instability, and a maze of slow and inadequate support systems. Her children are still recovering from what they saw. She works two jobs, barely sees them, and still struggles to keep her home and her car. This is not what safety looks like.
Republicans believe in strong families, safe communities, and real accountability. That includes holding abusers fully responsible for the pain they inflict. Florida has made progress, but we need a federal system that finally matches the seriousness of this issue.
If elected to Congress, I intend to help deliver that change.
First, we need emergency federal support that arrives when families need it. I will push for a Domestic Violence Rapid Response Fund. This will give certified local organizations immediate resources for housing, transportation, food, and basic safety needs.
Second, restraining orders must be enforceable and respected across every state. I will support stronger federal standards that help states track offenders, improve coordination, and act quickly when a victim is in danger.
Third, we need to expand trauma counseling and legal support for victims and children. I will fight for federal grants that strengthen proven programs in Florida and ensure therapy and advocacy services are available where they are needed most.
Fourth, violent domestic abusers must face real consequences. I will support legislation that strengthens sentencing guidelines and closes gaps that allow repeat offenders to slip through the system.
Florida can lead, but Washington must finally do its part.
A nation that cannot protect its most vulnerable is failing at its most basic responsibility.
