State senator Ileana Garcia of Miami-Dade, an unexpected GOP star of the session, collapsed on Tuesday during a press conference in Miami. Garcia—who had been debating a proposed statewide ban on water fluoridation—when the incident happened. This surprise turn played to the delight and gasp of attendees and television audiences across the country.
The star-studded press conference included not only front man Florida Governor Ron DeSantis but a host of GOP lawmakers. As Garcia, on fire with conviction, made her case, she unexpectedly passed out. What could’ve been a terrifying scene quickly became magical as Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo dusted in to save the day.
Ladapo was able to grab Garcia just before she collapsed and guided her into a chair that was nearby. His swift response prevented a potentially worse outcome, which highlights how being prepared can make all the difference during a public event.
Garcia later expressed her determination to continue advocating for Florida’s residents, saying, “Absolutely nothing is going to stop that woman from fighting for the people of Florida,” a statement reflecting the sentiments of those around her.
Though worried after the scare, Garcia was able to collect herself and return to the podium to complete her comments. The audience erupted as she stood strong, clearly indicating their approval of her fight.
In her follow-up comments, Garcia remarked, “Nerve-wracking, but this was my moment. And I so appreciate your grace, Governor DeSantis.”
Former Miami-Dade Commissioner Roberto Gonzalez was instrumental in Garcia’s success, and joined her during the press conference to help support her. He urged the audience to give her a round of applause for her perseverance and commitment against all odds.
“Hey, hey, hey, hey, got you, got you, got you,” – Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo
Having finished her speech without any further interruption, Garcia walked off the stage to another round of applause from the audience. Local10.com even called the scene a “scary scene.” It served to illuminate, in the end, Garcia’s fierce dedication to her work and the steadfast loyalty of her colleagues.
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