The following letter to the editor was published in The Daily Sun on July 27, 2023.
As Florida Governor Ron DeSantis focuses on his struggling presidential campaign, he ignores real issues faced by Floridians due to climate change.
The governor may not be persuaded by climate science, but actions by insurance companies may get his attention. According to a CNN report, over the past 18 months, 15 Florida home insurers have placed moratoriums on writing new business, four carriers have announced plans to voluntarily withdraw from the market and seven companies have been declared insolvent.
These are not “political” decisions by the insurance industry. Insurers calculate risk and they have decided the risks of climate change are real – as evidenced by insurance companies leaving our state.
The snowball effects from the insurance industry’s actions are profound. If we can’t insure our homes, then the current building boom will come to a screeching halt resulting in lost jobs and stalled economic growth.
During a recent FOX News interview, DeSantis said he “rejects the politicization of the weather,” and that he “can’t control the climate and I’m not doing mandates on any of that.” As voters educate themselves about presidential candidates and consider what’s happening in Florida, these words are important to remember. Ron, have you been outside lately?
Crystal Evans, Port Charlotte
