Senate Democratic Leader Lori Berman gave her first remarks after being elected to replace Sen. Jason Pizzo (I-Sunny Isles) at the start of today's session, saying in part that her party was "alive and kicking" after the latter said the Florida Democratic Party was "dead."
"Today I rise with deep gratitude, a strong sense of responsibility, and profound hope. It is the greatest honor of my professional life to stand before you as the newly elected leader of the Florida Democratic Senate Caucus," Berman said.
Leader Berman thanked her colleagues on the Senate floor, saying she felt privileged to serve in her new role.
"Florida stands at a crossroads. This moment demands clarity and courage. Yes, we face serious challenges - from a changing climate to rising costs, but within every challenge lies a chance to lead with purpose and heart, and this session has shown us what's possible when we choose progress over partisanship," Berman said.
Crediting Republican Senate President Ben Albritton, Berman praised the chamber for focusing on issues over divisiveness during the session.
"We focused on the issues that mattered most to Floridians: Protecting the environment, investing in education, prioritizing working families, and improving access to healthcare," Berman said.
She added that Democrats have fought against bills rolling back child labor protections, book banning and censorship in schools, and repeals of gun safety measures in the wake of the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland in 2018.
"Floridians are watching. They are watching this chamber. And not for the theatrics or soundbites, but for leadership," Berman said. "Leadership that puts people first. Leadership that rises above the noise and moves us forward to a shared vision for Florida's future."
In the minority, Berman acknowledged working with the Republican-controlled Senate.
"Some issues should never be partisan. Such as ensuring our children's safety in school, protecting clean water, caring for veterans, and growing our economy in a way that uplifts all Floridians, not just the few at the top," Berman said.
"Let's work together where we can. Let's disagree with respect where we must. And let's remember we were not elected to be comfortable, we were elected to be courageous," Berman added.
Last week, Sen. Pizzo resigned as Democratic Leader and registered as an Independent. Without mentioning him by name, Berman said she took issue with his comments that the party was "dead."
"We are alive and kicking. Passing good bills. Fighting bad policy. And getting appropriations for projects that impact our districts. We may not hold the majority, but we have something just as powerful: A vision rooted in fairness, injustice, inequality, and in care," Berman said.
