LETTER: Gaetz attacks 30A Songwriters Festival, embarrassing himself and his constituents

On Jan. 10, Rep. Matt Gaetz attacked his own constituents. In a letter from his congressional office, Gaetz alerted Gov. Ron DeSantis of the COVID policy of the upcoming 30A Songwriters Festival, claiming that the policy violates Executive Order 21-81 and asking DeSantis to give the matter his immediate attention.

However, in his own letter, Gaetz identifies the key to dismantling his own argument and rhetoric. Far from requiring a "vaccine passport" or requiring proof of vaccination in violation of EO 21-81, he admits the alternative of "proof of a professionally administered negative COVID test within 72 hours immediately prior to the start of the Festival" by quoting the policy verbatim.

I cannot pretend to understand the desired outcome of this letter. Is Gaetz trying to reduce vital tourism in his own district? Is he trying to highlight his poor qualifications for re-election? Is he trying to find favor with DeSantis with a media stunt?

I can agree with Gaetz that his letter is "regrettable."

Matt Gaetz, you are supposed to build up your district, not attack it and tear it down.

I regret your representation.

— Nathan Cook, Niceville

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This article originally appeared on Northwest Florida Daily News: LETTER: Gaetz attacks 30A fest, embarrassing himself and constituents