Fort Myers News Press - Trey Radel Stops by the News-Press, Shares Opinions
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U.S. Rep. Trey Radel will be taking part in a "fly-in" at Washington, D.C., next week, where city and community leaders will testify how the economy of Southwest Florida's communities has been devastated by Lake Okeechobee's fresh water releases.
Radel stopped by The News-Press this morning to speak to the paper's editorial board and share details of a bipartisan effort with Rep. Patrick Murphy -- a democrat representing Palm Beach, Martin and St. Lucie counties -- concerning Lake Okeechobee's releases, on Oct. 3.
He also shared his stance on critical issues Congress is facing, including the Affordable Health Care Act going into effect, the debt ceiling and Syria.
On Lake Okeechobee
Radel said flying in local leaders to Washington, D.C., is an effort to educate people and to present real-world testimony.
"I really want to stress how important preventing these fresh water dumps is important to our entire state," said Radel, adding tourists won't understand that only parts of the state are affected by the releases.
On the Affordable Health Care Act
Radel would like to see the enactment of the Affordable Health Care Act, commonly referred to as Obamacare, delayed for a year.
"Of course I would like to see the Affordable Health Care Act defunded," Radel said. "Delay this thing; this terrible, unworkable law
On the debt ceiling
Radel said he's for passing a resolution that keeps the government funded. He doesn't understand, however, why President Barack Obama has said he will not negotiate on the debt ceiling; the last time Obama negotiated on the debt ceiling, it lead to a more efficiently run government, he said.
"Right now, President Obama is basically saying write me a blank check and don't ask questions," Radel said.
On Syria
Radel said there has been a total lack of clarity when it comes to why the United States should carry out any strike against Syria.
"I approach everything with asking, "what is the direct or indirect threat to the United States of America'?" Radel said.
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