Scott Sworn in for Second Term, Releases Statement

Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) has released a statement after he was sworn into the United States Senate for the second time. He defeated former Congresswoman Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (D-FL) by a double-digit margin.

Scott's Statement

In his statement, the Florida Senator recollected on his time as Florida governor and how that shaped his identity as a senator during his first term.

“I’m so proud to have another six years doing the best job in the world – serving the people of Florida as their U.S. Senator and fighting to protect the American dream for all Americans," said Sen. Scott. "When I became Governor of Florida in 2010, Florida’s economy was in shambles, I was determined to turn the state around and make sure that every family in Florida could get a great job, live in a safe community, and send their kids to a great school."

Sen. Scott also mentioned his belief in the strategies he implemented as governor of the Sunshine State.

"Florida’s turnaround playbook worked. That’s why I’ve spent my time as United States Senator working to bring Florida’s success to the federal government and making Washington Work for families. We’ve had so many great wins for Floridians over these past six years, and I’ll be spending every day of my second term as your U.S. Senator building on those efforts. I’m glad to have President Trump as a partner in the White House, who is committed to making the much-needed changes in Washington to make our communities safe, put Americans first and preserve the American dream. Let’s get to work, Florida!” concluded Scott.

Scott v. Mucarsel-Powell: Race History

The former Florida governor seemed to be in firm control of the race a month before election day, but the race grew closer seemingly every week.

Sen. Scott had a seven-point lead heading into Election Day, according to polling from Research Co. Scott's smallest lead in the November polls was three points, according to Morning Consult.

Sen. Scott and former Rep. Mucarsel-Powell have traded jabs throughout this campaign cycle.

Recently, Scott called out Mucarsel-Powell for allegedly violating Sunshine State election laws, as it appears she filmed herself inside a polling location. This is against Florida Statute 102.031(5) which states:

“No photography is permitted in the polling room or early voting area, except an elector may photograph his or her own ballot.”

Former Rep. Mucarsel-Powell posted a video seemingly inside a polling station in anticipation of her casting her ballot early. It was deleted.

However, in the middle of October. Mucarsel-Powell released an advertisement depicting Scott as a giant snake. In the ad, Sen. Scott’s head is placed on top of the giant snake as he slithers out of medical offices and toward the Capitol Building.

“Then Scott slid into the Senate, where he wrote the plan to end social security, raise your taxes, and ban abortion,” said the former congresswoman. “Rick Scott’s a slippery politician who’s been ripping you off. I’m Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, and I approve this message because your family is getting squeezed and it’s time for a senator with a spine."

Race Results

Despite the race narrowing toward the end, Sen. Scott defeated Mucarsel-Powell by 13 points, the same margin of victory President-elect Donald Trump (R) recorded against Vice President Kamala Harris (D) in the state of Florida.

Sen. Scott has yet to lose an election in his political career, which is impressive considering all of his races have been statewide.