Gov. Rick Scott and First Lady Ann Scott

“This Independence Day, Americans will celebrate the birth of the United State of America. We are blessed to live in a country like no other, a country of liberty and freedom. One of the most remarkable traits of our great nation is the opportunity that Americans have to live freely, pursue their dreams and succeed. I have seen this demonstrated frequently as governor when I travel the state and talk with business owners and hear their stories of determination and resolve as they work to succeed.

“As Americans, my wish is that we never take these opportunities for granted, and we give thanks to the men and women, both past and present, who have made the freedom and liberty we enjoy every day possible in our country.

“Today, I ask you to join me in honoring our servicemen and women. Because of their sacrifice, and the sacrifice of their families, we can enjoy this holiday, knowing that we are truly free.  

“Ann and I wish everyone a safe and happy Independence Day. Let freedom ring!”


Attorney General Pam Bondi

“As we celebrate our country’s independence this Fourth of July, let us be grateful for the freedom and opportunity that we, as Americans, enjoy. Our Founding Fathers and our country’s leaders who have followed them have dedicated themselves to defending our inalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

“We would not live in the great country we know today if not for the sacrifices of the men and women who have served in our armed forces. I ask that you take a moment to remember those who have served our country and thank those who are currently serving our country.”
         


Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater

"On July 4, 1821, John Quincy Adams said in a speech celebrating the 45th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, 'It stands, and must forever stand alone, a beacon on the summit of the mountain, to which all the inhabitants of the earth may turn their eyes for a genial and saving light, till time shall be lost in eternity, and this globe itself dissolve, nor leave a wreck behind. It stands forever, a light of admonition to the rulers of men; a light of salvation and redemption to the oppressed.'

"As we celebrate one document’s monumental impact on the forming of a nation, we remember the bravery of the signers of our Declaration of Independence who stood up against tyranny and fought for liberty and freedom.

"Our Founding Fathers risked their lives to formulate a union that was by the people and for the people, and to create a nation that would be a beacon for all who craved freedom and liberty. America has stood for 235 years by holding true to our founding principles. If we are to stand another 235 years, we must not allow our nation to be swept away by the whims of a few, but rather, listen to the voice of the majority and remain faithful to our founding principles.

"In gathering with friends and family to celebrate the Fourth of July, let us never forget the magnitude of what those 56 patriots did in signing our Declaration as we honor those who defend our nation and cherish the freedoms we enjoy each and every day."


Florida Rep. Janet Adkins, R-Fernandina Beach

“As we pause to celebrate the 236th anniversary of our nation's independence, let us pause to remember the sacrifices made in the past and those being made in the present to preserve the great American legacy called freedom.

“I wish each and every one of you a safe and happy July 4th holiday.”





Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam (via Twitter)

“236 yrs ago, our founders risked everything to lay the groundwork for a Republic that was only realized after great sacrifice & bloodshed.”

“It has been sustained these two centuries by the continued vigilance of our men and women in uniform and the diligence of our citizens.”

 



U.S. Rep. John Mica, R-Orlando

“Today, on this 236th year since the adoption of our Declaration of Independence, we proudly celebrate our nation’s founding.  This week, on the Fourth of July and every day, we should honor the memory of those who laid the foundation and sacrificed for the rights, freedoms and liberties which we enjoy.

“Happy Fourth of July.  May God bless you and may God continue to bless America.”

 


Florida House Speaker-designate Will Weatherford, R-Wesley Chapel

“Our Founders – a group of people who wrote down that our rights as human beings come from our God…not a govt, not a king. What a country!”





Florida Sen. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey

“As we celebrate the birth of our great nation let us not forget the service members who are in harm’s way protecting our freedoms.”

 


Florida Rep. Dana Young, R-Tampa

“Happy Independence Day! As you enjoy this day with family and friends, never forgot those in Uniform that protect our freedom every day.”

 



Florida Education Commissioner Gerald Robinson

“This has been an incredible year of change for Florida’s students, teachers, and schools. The foundation that Florida is building in our schools and colleges will support our children in coming years, making their futures brighter.

“Our state continues to push ahead with innovative education reforms because we want our diverse learners to reach higher, and be prepared for college, career, and life. Florida moves forward knowing that today’s students will become tomorrow’s leaders.

“The American Dream is within reach of every student in our great nation, and, with access to high-quality education, their chances significantly improve.”