I have served to the fullest every day, and I now begin a new chapter in my life, overflowing with gratitude for this wonderful opportunity to serve, for the many colleagues I have come to know, for my team, my family, my God, and for the community that trusted this child of political refugees with the privilege of representing it here in the Congress of the United States of America.

South Florida has one of the most distinct and unique landscapes in the country, making it a popular place to visit and live. At the heart of this landscape are the coral reefs that hug the coast of the Florida Keys, and are unfortunately under constant threat. I am pleased to see additional funding has been provided to guarantee one of nature’s greatest treasures will continue to be restored and protected along with all the species that call the reef ecosystem home.