Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) criticized progressive Democrats over government spending and defense policy disputes, arguing that socialist ideas could weaken individual freedom and the American economy.
Scott Targets Democrats Over Socialism
On Wednesday, Scott made the remarks during a Fox News interview and in a post on X while discussing Democratic opposition to the National Defense Authorization Act, an annual bill that outlines U.S. defense priorities.
Responding to questions about the defense bill and national security concerns involving Iran, Scott said Republicans support the legislation and blamed Democrats for blocking it.
"You’d have to ask the Democrats. Every Republican, we support it," Scott said.
He added, "But I don’t think it’s going to change."
Scott criticized Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and progressive Democrats, arguing that Democratic leaders are responding to pressure from lawmakers such as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
"I think… Chuck Schumer is so afraid of AOC and the Socialist Democrats that they will they’re going along with all these crazy ideas that they have defunding the military, defunding law enforcement, free everything under the sun," Scott said.
He also warned against what he called the dangers of socialism, saying, "If you look at socialism, it always ends up in a government and dictating everything."
In a post on X, Scott added, "Socialism means government dictating every single thing in your life. That can’t happen in this country."
Socialism means government dictating every single thing in your life. That can’t happen in this country.
— Rick Scott (@SenRickScott) July 15, 2026
It’s more important than ever to fight for the American dream and our freedom.
We CAN’T let the radical left drive us into the ground. pic.twitter.com/qQsJZQHRPB
Read Also: Elizabeth Warren Says Housing Affordability Bill Became Law While Trump 'Was Sleeping'
Democrats Challenge GOP Voting Measures
Last month, Schumer said Democrats blocked a voter database system linked to President Donald Trump after a federal judge ruled it violated privacy protections and federal law.
Schumer also said Democrats would continue opposing the GOP-backed SAVE Act, which they argue could undermine voting access.
Earlier, Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) criticized the SAVE America Act, warning that its voter registration requirements could create barriers for millions, especially seniors, by requiring documents such as passports or birth certificates.
He argued the measure could make voting harder for eligible Americans.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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