Given its shape and location, the state of Florida is uniquely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Since the Florida GOP can’t abide the thought of intervening in the economy to prevent or even mitigate climate change, however, state government has done nothing to address the mounting problems over the last decade. Rick Scott reportedly wouldn’t even permit the use of the term in state regulations.
Unfortunately, reality bites, even in Florida. The cost of property insurance is out of control, due to the increasing cost of tropical events fueled by rising temperatures, and is becoming a major campaign issue. Instead of trying to address the underlying problem, DeSantis and the legislature have decided to pour more taxpayer money into the state-owned insurance company of last resort, and to expand its obligations. Otherwise, the value of property in Florida would collapse, and with it, the economy.
Doesn’t this sound a lot like, well, socialism for the middle class? Whatever happened to the rugged individual in Florida? One hopes that the Democrats understand what an opening this is and exploit it during the campaign.