History of Rick Scott in Timeline
Rick Scott is an American politician and businessman who served as the 45th governor of Florida from 2011 to 2019. Currently, he holds the position of junior U.S. Senator from Florida, representing the Republican Party. His political career started in 2019.
1928: Birth of Esther Scott
Rick Scott's mother, Esther J. Scott (née Fry), was born in 1928.
May 11, 1952: Birth of Frances Annette Holland
Frances Annette Holland was born on May 11, 1952.
December 1, 1952: Birth of Rick Scott
Rick Scott was born Richard Lynn Myers on December 1, 1952, in Bloomington, Illinois.
1954: Esther Scott's Second Marriage
Esther Scott married Orba George Scott Jr., a truck driver, in 1954. Orba adopted Rick, who took his stepfather's surname.
1970: High School Graduation
Rick Scott graduated from North Kansas City High School in 1970.
April 20, 1972: Marriage to Frances Annette Holland
On April 20, 1972, Rick Scott, at the age of 19, married his high school sweetheart, Frances Annette Holland.
1972: Marriage to Ann Holland
Rick Scott married Ann Holland, whom he met in high school, in 1972. He had just completed naval bootcamp before the wedding.
1975: Graduates from University of Missouri-Kansas City
Rick Scott graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 1975 after serving in the Navy.
1978: Earns Law Degree and Becomes Licensed Attorney
Rick Scott earned a Juris Doctor degree from Southern Methodist University and was licensed to practice law in Texas in 1978.
1985: Scott Repeals Growth Management Laws
Rick Scott repealed Florida's growth management laws that were enacted in 1985. He aimed to reduce regulations and promote economic growth, but this move sparked debate about its environmental impact.
April 1987: First Attempt to Buy HCA
In April 1987, Rick Scott, while still a partner at Johnson & Swanson, made his first attempt to buy the Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) for $5 billion, but the offer was declined.
1987: Co-founds Columbia Hospital Corporation
After serving in the Navy and becoming a law firm partner, Rick Scott co-founded Columbia Hospital Corporation in 1987.
1988: Columbia Hospital Corporation's Early Acquisitions
In 1988, Rick Scott and Richard Rainwater founded Columbia Hospital Corporation, purchasing two struggling hospitals in El Paso and later acquiring a neighboring hospital.
1989: Columbia Hospital Corporation's Growth
By the end of 1989, Columbia Hospital Corporation owned four hospitals with a total of 833 beds.
1992: Columbia Acquires Basic American Medical
Columbia Hospital Corporation made a stock purchase of Basic American Medical, which owned eight hospitals, primarily in Southwestern Florida, in 1992.
September 1993: Columbia Acquires Galen Healthcare
In September 1993, Columbia made a $3.4 billion stock purchase of Galen Healthcare, which owned approximately 90 hospitals.
1994: Columbia Merges with HCA
Columbia Hospital Corporation merged with HCA in 1994, forming the largest for-profit health care company in the country, with Scott as CEO.
1995: Meeting Karen Bowling
Scott met Karen Bowling, a former television anchor, in 1995 when Columbia acquired Memorial Hospital. Bowling would later become the co-founder of Solantic with Scott.
March 19, 1997: Federal Investigation into Columbia/HCA
On March 19, 1997, federal agents raided Columbia/HCA facilities. Four months later, the board of directors pressured Rick Scott to resign as chairman and CEO, following warnings about the company's incentive practices for doctors.
July 1997: Involvement with America's Health Network (AHN)
Following his departure from Columbia/HCA, Scott became the majority owner of AHN in July 1997, after an initial acquisition attempt by Columbia/HCA fell through. This event signifies his continued interest in healthcare media.
1997: Resignation from Columbia/HCA
Rick Scott resigned as chief executive of Columbia/HCA in 1997 after the company was investigated for defrauding Medicare and Medicaid.
1997: Launch of Richard L. Scott Investments
After leaving Columbia/HCA, Scott started Richard L. Scott Investments in 1997. This move marked a shift in his career towards investment in healthcare, manufacturing, and technology.
1998: Bill McCollum's Medicare Fraud Bill
In 1998, Bill McCollum, who later became Scott's opponent in the gubernatorial primary, sponsored a bill that aimed to make prosecuting Medicare fraud more difficult. This bill became a point of contention during their campaigns.
1998: Investment in America's Health Network (AHN)
In 1998, Scott and a group of investors provided significant funding for AHN, enabling the company to continue operations.
1998: Investment in CyberGuard Corporation
In 1998, Scott invested approximately \$10 million for a 50% stake in CyberGuard Corporation, a security software company.
1999: Merger and Restructuring of AHN
AHN, under Scott's leadership, merged with Fit TV in 1999 and later underwent ownership changes involving News Corp. and WebMD. This period reflects the dynamic and evolving landscape of healthcare media.
1999: Government Researchers Report on Drug Use and Welfare
Between 1999 and 2000, government researchers conducted a study on drug use among welfare recipients. The study's findings indicated that 9.6 percent of individuals in families receiving government assistance reported recent drug use, compared to 6.8 percent among those not receiving assistance.
1999: Growth of America's Health Network (AHN)
By early 1999, AHN, under Scott's ownership, expanded its reach to 9.5 million homes, demonstrating successful leadership and investment.
September 2000: WebMD Restructuring and Ownership Changes
WebMD's restructuring in September 2000 led to significant changes in The Health Network's ownership, impacting Scott's stake in the venture.
2000: Columbia/HCA Healthcare Fraud Settlement
In 2000, Columbia/HCA, under Scott's leadership, reached a settlement where they pleaded guilty to 14 felonies and paid over \$600 million in fines. This was the largest healthcare fraud settlement in U.S. history at the time.
2000: Government Researchers Report on Drug Use and Welfare
Between 1999 and 2000, government researchers conducted a study on drug use among welfare recipients. The study's findings indicated that 9.6 percent of individuals in families receiving government assistance reported recent drug use, compared to 6.8 percent among those not receiving assistance.
January 2001: News Corp. Regains Ownership of The Health Network
News Corp. regained complete ownership of The Health Network in January 2001, marking a shift in the media landscape.
September 2001: Sale of The Health Network
The Health Network was sold to Discovery Health Channel in September 2001, concluding Scott's involvement in the venture.
2001: Completion of CyberGuard Corporation Investment
By 2001, Scott had completed his acquisition of 50% of CyberGuard Corporation.
2001: Co-founding of Solantic
Scott and Karen Bowling co-founded Solantic, an urgent care provider, in 2001, demonstrating his continued interest in the healthcare sector.
2002: Columbia/HCA Healthcare Fraud Settlement Conclusion
In 2002, Columbia/HCA concluded the settlement by agreeing to pay an additional \$631 million, plus interest, totaling over \$2 billion in settlements. This event marked a significant legal challenge for the company and Scott's career.
2002: Columbia/HCA Healthcare Fraud Settlement Conclusion
In 2002, Columbia/HCA concluded the settlement by agreeing to pay an additional \$631 million, plus interest, totaling over \$2 billion in settlements. This event marked a significant legal challenge for the company and Scott's career.
2002: Solantic Opens First Urgent Care Center
Solantic opened its first urgent care center in 2002, offering an alternative to emergency room care for patients without insurance or immediate access to primary care.
2003: Investment in Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacies
Scott invested \$5.5 million in Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacies in 2003. This investment aligned with his interest in healthcare and demonstrated his support for alternative medicine options.
February 2005: Acquisition of Continental Structural Plastics
Scott purchased Continental Structural Plastics (CSP) in February 2005, marking a significant expansion of his investment portfolio into the manufacturing sector.
2005: Co-founding of Alijor.com
In 2005, Scott, alongside his daughter Allison, co-founded Alijor.com, a healthcare information platform. This venture combined his business acumen with his experience in the healthcare industry.
July 2006: Acquisition of Budd Plastics
In July 2006, CSP, under Scott's ownership, acquired Budd Plastics, establishing CSP as the largest industrial composites molder in North America. This acquisition highlights Scott's business acumen and strategic investments.
2006: Mitch McConnell Becomes Senate Minority Leader
Mitch McConnell became Senate Minority Leader, a position he held until being challenged by Rick Scott in 2022.
2006: Death of Orba George Scott Jr.
Rick Scott's stepfather, Orba George Scott Jr., passed away in 2006.
2006: Funding and Vision for Alijor.com
Scott provided the initial \$3 million funding for Alijor.com in 2006 and aimed to make it a national platform for healthcare information transparency.
2006: Solantic Expansion Plans
By 2006, Scott had ambitious plans to establish Solantic as a national brand of medical clinics, showcasing his vision for expanding access to healthcare.
May 23, 2007: Solantic Employment Discrimination Suit Settlement
On May 23, 2007, Solantic settled an employment discrimination lawsuit. The suit alleged discriminatory hiring practices, which Scott denied, highlighting the complexities and challenges sometimes faced by growing companies.
August 2007: Solantic Receives Investment
Solantic secured a \$40 million investment in August 2007, reflecting investor confidence in the company's potential for growth and expansion.
May 2008: Acquisition of Drives and Other Investments
Scott's investments in May 2008 included Drives, a manufacturer of drive chain systems. He also reportedly invested in S&S Family Entertainment, demonstrating his diverse investment portfolio.
February 2009: Founding of Conservatives for Patients' Rights
Scott established Conservatives for Patients' Rights (CPR) in February 2009, advocating for free-market healthcare solutions. This move marked his entry into the political sphere.
March 2009: Funding for Conservatives for Patients' Rights
Scott committed \$5 million to CPR by March 2009, demonstrating his commitment to promoting conservative healthcare reform.
March 2009: Solantic Reaches 24 Centers
By March 2009, Solantic had expanded to 24 centers, all in Florida, demonstrating significant growth and success in its mission to provide accessible healthcare.
April 9, 2010: Announcement of Candidacy for Governor of Florida
On April 9, 2010, Scott announced his candidacy for Governor of Florida as a Republican, marking a significant shift from businessman to politician.
October 25, 2010: Tampa Debate and Campaign Spending
During the gubernatorial race, the Tampa debate on October 25, 2010, highlighted the significant financial resources Scott dedicated to his campaign, spending \$60 million compared to his opponent's \$28 million.
2010: Gubernatorial Campaign and Job Creation Pledge
During his 2010 gubernatorial campaign, Rick Scott pledged to create 700,000 jobs in Florida, promising to "run the state like you run a business." This pledge was later deemed a "Promise Kept" by PolitiFact in 2018.
2010: Florida Voters Approve Anti-Gerrymandering Amendments
Florida voters passed constitutional amendments in the 2010 elections that aimed to prevent gerrymandering, the manipulation of electoral district boundaries, in both congressional and state legislative districts.
2010: Net Worth Estimation
In 2010, Rick Scott's net worth was estimated at US$219 million.
2010: School Choice Expansion Vow
In 2010, during his campaign, Rick Scott pledged to expand school choice in Florida. This promise was later rated "Promise Kept" by PolitiFact due to his efforts as governor, including signing legislation like the Hope Scholarship Program, which provides financial aid for students to attend private schools or transfer to different public schools if they experience bullying.
2010: First Gubernatorial Election
Rick Scott ran for Governor of Florida in 2010, winning a close race against Democratic nominee Alex Sink.
2010: Scott Runs for Governor as Immigration Hard-liner
Rick Scott ran for governor in 2010 on a platform of strict immigration policies. He supported laws similar to Arizona's SB 1070, which aimed to crack down on illegal immigration.
2010: NRA-PVF Endorsement
The NRA-PVF endorsed Rick Scott in 2010.
January 4, 2011: Rick Scott Becomes Governor of Florida
On January 4, 2011, Rick Scott was sworn in as the 45th governor of Florida, following his victory in the 2010 gubernatorial election.
February 2011: Scott Withdraws Request for Justice Department Approval on Anti-Gerrymandering Amendments
In February 2011, Rick Scott withdrew a request that had been made to the US Department of Justice for preclearance of the anti-gerrymandering amendments approved by Florida voters. This decision, as reported by The Miami Herald, had the potential to delay the implementation of redistricting plans.
February 16, 2011: Scott Rejects Federal Funding for High-Speed Rail Project
Rick Scott rejected $2.3 billion in federal funding allocated for the development of a high-speed rail line connecting Tampa and Orlando on February 16, 2011. He cited concerns about cost overruns and lower-than-projected ridership based on California's experience with a similar project
March 1, 2011: Florida Senators Challenge Scott's Rejection of Rail Funds
Two Florida state senators filed a legal petition with the Florida Supreme Court on March 1, 2011, aiming to compel Rick Scott to accept the federal funding for the high-speed rail project. They argued that Scott lacked the constitutional authority to reject funds that a previous legislature had already approved.
March 2011: Scott Pushes for PortMiami Dredging Project
In March 2011, Rick Scott took steps to initiate a dredging project at PortMiami. The project aimed to deepen the port to 50 feet, enabling it to accommodate larger Panamax-sized vessels that would be passing through the expanded Panama Canal.
June 2011: Scott Signs Drug Testing Bill for Welfare Recipients
In June 2011, Rick Scott signed a bill into law requiring individuals applying for welfare benefits under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program to undergo drug testing. This controversial law aimed to ensure that welfare funds were not being used for illegal drug use.
October 2011: Rick Scott Announces Re-election Bid
In October 2011, Rick Scott announced his intention to seek re-election as governor of Florida in the 2014 election.
December 2011: Scott's Approval Rating Hits Low Point
In December 2011, Rick Scott's approval rating as governor of Florida reached a low of 26 percent, the lowest among U.S. governors at the time. This reflected public dissatisfaction with some of his early policies and actions as governor.
2011: Scott Opposes In-State Tuition for Illegal Immigrants
In 2011, Rick Scott opposed granting in-state tuition rates to illegal immigrants, taking a stance against providing them with educational benefits.
2011: Firearm Owners' Privacy Act ("Docs vs. Glocks") Enacted
In 2011, Rick Scott signed the Firearm Owners' Privacy Act, often referred to as "Docs vs. Glocks." This law made it illegal for medical professionals, including doctors and mental health practitioners, to inquire about patients' gun ownership unless they deemed it relevant to the patient's safety or the safety of others.
2011: Beginning of Governorship
Rick Scott served as the 45th Governor of Florida from 2011 to 2019.
2011: Scott Issues Clemency Rules Deemed Restrictive by Brennan Center
The clemency rules established by Rick Scott in 2011 were identified as some of the most restrictive in the United States by the Brennan Center for Justice. These rules made it significantly more challenging for individuals with past felony convictions to regain their voting rights.
2011: Scott Appoints Chris Nocco as Pasco County Sheriff
In 2011, Rick Scott appointed Chris Nocco, a Republican figure with limited experience in law enforcement, as the Sheriff of Pasco County.
December 2012: Tuition Reduction Plan for Engineering and Science Majors
In December 2012, Rick Scott announced a plan to reduce tuition fees for certain majors in an effort to encourage students to pursue degrees in engineering and science.
2012: Passage of the STOCK Act
The Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge (STOCK) Act of 2012 was passed.
2012: Scott's Actions on Voting Rights Draw Criticism
Rick Scott faced criticism for his attempts to implement voter ID laws and other measures that were seen as creating barriers to voting. Notably, his efforts to purge non-citizens from voter rolls shortly before the 2012 election were met with legal challenges and accusations of disenfranchising eligible voters.
2012: Death of Esther Scott
Rick Scott's mother, Esther J. Scott (née Fry), passed away in 2012.
2012: Net Worth Estimation
In 2012, Rick Scott's net worth was estimated at $84 million.
2012: Court Rules Against Scott's Fines on Voter Registration Groups
A court ruling in 2012 prevented Rick Scott from imposing significant financial penalties on organizations that were involved in registering voters but had failed to submit the completed registrations within a 48-hour timeframe.
2013: Scott Signs Timely Justice Act
In 2013, Rick Scott signed the Timely Justice Act (HB 7101), aiming to expedite the capital punishment process in Florida. The law faced legal challenges and controversy surrounding its constitutionality.
2013: Shifting Stance on Medicaid Expansion
Initially opposing Medicaid expansion in Florida due to cost concerns, Rick Scott's position shifted in 2013 when he expressed support for it, reiterating this stance during his 2014 reelection campaign.
2013: Scott Orders Closure of Mail Ballot Submission Sites in Pinellas County
Rick Scott issued an order in 2013 to shut down designated locations in Pinellas County where voters could submit their mail-in ballots.
2013: Scott Vetoes Legislation Granting Driver's Licenses to DACA Recipients
Rick Scott vetoed a bill in 2013 that would have allowed DACA-eligible immigrants to obtain temporary driving licenses.
2013: Net Worth Estimation
Rick Scott's net worth was estimated at $133 million in 2013.
May 2014: Scott's Re-election Campaign Raises Millions
By May 2014, Rick Scott's political funding committee, "Let's Get to Work," had successfully raised $28 million for his re-election campaign.
June 2014: Scott's Campaign Ads Target Charlie Crist
In June 2014, Rick Scott's campaign launched a series of television advertisements targeting his potential Democratic opponent, Charlie Crist. These ads focused on attacking Crist's record and led to a closer race between the two candidates.
September 2014: Crist Seeks Support from Black Voters
In September 2014, Charlie Crist was actively seeking support from Florida's Black voters, aiming to secure a significant portion of this demographic's vote in his bid for governor. However, polls indicated that his support among Black voters was lower than needed to defeat incumbent Rick Scott.
September 2014: Scott Invests Heavily in Television Advertising
By late September 2014, Rick Scott had spent over $35 million on television advertising for his re-election campaign. This figure increased to $56.5 million by mid-October, significantly outspending his opponent, Charlie Crist.
November 4, 2014: Rick Scott Wins Re-election
On November 4, 2014, Rick Scott and his running mate, Carlos Lopez-Cantera, won the Florida gubernatorial election, defeating Charlie Crist and Annette Taddeo-Goldstein. This victory secured Scott a second term as governor of Florida.
December 2014: Drug Testing Law for Welfare Recipients Declared Unconstitutional
In December 2014, the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit upheld a lower court's ruling that Florida's law requiring drug testing for welfare recipients was unconstitutional. The Scott administration chose not to appeal this decision to the US Supreme Court.
2014: Scott Blocks Early Voting Site at University of Florida Facility
Rick Scott prevented the use of a facility at the University of Florida as an early voting location in 2014, a decision that would later be challenged in court and overturned.
2014: Rejection of Climate Change Consensus
Rick Scott's statement, "I'm not a scientist," became a talking point for some Republican candidates during the 2014 election campaigns, highlighting his rejection of the scientific consensus on climate change.
2014: NRA-PVF Endorsement and Recognition for Pro-Gun Legislation
In 2014, the NRA-PVF endorsed Rick Scott again, recognizing him for signing more pro-gun bills into law in one term than any other governor in Florida's history.
2014: Scott Moderates Stance on Immigration
By 2014, Rick Scott's position on immigration had shifted. He softened his views and moved away from his previous hard-line stance, as reported by PolitiFact.
2014: Re-election as Governor
Rick Scott was re-elected as Governor of Florida in 2014, narrowly defeating former Governor Charlie Crist.
2014: Scott Signs In-State Tuition Bill for DREAMers
Rick Scott reversed his previous stance in 2014 by signing a bill that granted in-state tuition to DREAMers, undocumented students brought to the US as children.
2014: Reiterated Support for Medicaid Expansion
Rick Scott reiterated his support for Medicaid expansion during his 2014 reelection campaign.
March 9, 2015: Evasive Stance on Global Warming
When questioned by the press on March 9, 2015, in Hialeah, Florida, about his stance on global warming and whether Florida's Department of Environmental Protection was prepared for its potential consequences, Rick Scott did not provide a clear answer.
March 2015: Allegations of Banning Climate Change Terms
In March 2015, accusations arose that the Scott administration had instructed the Department of Environmental Protection to avoid using the terms "climate change" or "global warming" in official communications. Scott denied these allegations.
July 1, 2015: Net Worth Update
On July 1, 2015, Rick Scott's net worth was reported as $147 million.
August 2015: Scott's Approval Rating Improves
By August 2015, Rick Scott's approval rating as governor had improved to 45 percent, indicating growing public support for his policies and leadership.
2015: Reversal on Medicaid Expansion
After being reelected, Rick Scott reversed his stance on Medicaid expansion, opposing efforts by the Florida Senate to pass it, citing renewed fiscal concerns.
2015: Investment in Conduent Inc. and the SunPass Controversy
In 2015, Rick Scott was an investor in Conduent Inc., a company that was awarded a $287 million contract to manage Florida's SunPass toll program. When glitches in SunPass resulted in overcharges and bank fees for motorists, Scott defended the Florida Department of Transportation's handling of the situation, despite criticism of the agency's inaction.
January 2016: Supreme Court Partially Strikes Down Timely Justice Act
In January 2016, the United States Supreme Court struck down a portion of Florida's Timely Justice Act, finding that the law's sentencing guidelines for capital punishment violated the Sixth Amendment right to a jury trial. This decision required Florida to revise its death penalty sentencing procedures.
January 2016: Florida Grapples with Death Penalty Sentencing
Following the January 2016 United States Supreme Court decision in Hurst v. Florida, the state legislature passed a new statute requiring a 10-juror supermajority for a death sentence. However, the Florida Supreme Court struck down this law in October 2016, creating uncertainty regarding the state's death penalty procedures.
October 2016: Florida Supreme Court Rules on Death Penalty Sentencing
In October 2016, the Florida Supreme Court ruled that a death sentence in the state must be determined by a unanimous jury. This decision further complicated Florida's capital punishment process, requiring legislative action to establish new sentencing procedures.
December 31, 2016: Net Worth Update
Rick Scott's net worth increased to $149 million as of December 31, 2016.
2016: Scott's Actions on Voter Registration and Mail Ballots Face Legal Challenges
Rick Scott's decision not to extend voter registration deadlines following Hurricane Matthew evacuations in 2016 was challenged in court, leading to an extension of the deadline. Additionally, a law he signed regarding signature matching on mail ballots was struck down by a court that same year.
2016: Rick Scott's Early Support for Donald Trump
In 2016, Rick Scott was an early and vocal supporter of Donald Trump's presidential campaign, a move that would later factor into Scott's own political campaigns.
2016: Scott Endorses and Supports Trump's Candidacy
During the 2016 Republican primaries, Rick Scott endorsed Donald Trump for president after Trump won the Florida primary. Scott remained a vocal supporter of Trump throughout the general election, chairing a pro-Trump super PAC and praising Trump's stance on terrorism and his outsider status.
2016: Statewide Public School Choice Bill
In 2016, Rick Scott signed a bill that granted parents the ability to choose any public school in Florida for their children, disregarding traditional attendance zones and county boundaries.
March 2017: Lawsuit Filed Challenging Clemency Board's Decisions on Voting Rights Restoration
Seven individuals who had previously been convicted of felonies filed a class action lawsuit in March 2017, challenging the decision-making processes of the clemency board, which was responsible for restoring voting rights to former felons. The lawsuit alleged that the board's decisions were inconsistent, lacking in clear standards, and politically motivated.
April 2017: Scott's Approval Rating Continues to Climb
In April 2017, Rick Scott's approval rating as governor of Florida reached 57 percent, reflecting continued positive public sentiment towards his performance in office.
June 9, 2017: Expansion of Florida's Stand-Your-Ground Law
Rick Scott signed an expanded version of Florida's stand-your-ground law on June 9, 2017.
2017: Public School Bill with Charter School Expansion
A $419 million public school bill, which included provisions for charter school expansion, was signed into law by Rick Scott in 2017. The bill was met with support from House Republicans, school choice advocates, and conservative groups, while facing opposition from superintendents, school boards, parent groups, and teachers unions.
2017: Lawsuit Regarding Wealth Disclosure and Appeals Court Ruling
In 2017, Democratic activist and lawyer Donald Hinkle filed a lawsuit alleging that Rick Scott had not fully disclosed his wealth and holdings, potentially underestimating his net worth. Scott appealed to the First Circuit Court of Appeals, which ruled in his favor, stating that only the Commission on Ethics had the authority to investigate the complaint.
2017: Investments in Firms Connected to Venezuela and Russia
In 2017, Rick Scott and his wife held stocks in companies that conducted business with the Maduro government in Venezuela, as well as a shipping company with links to Russia. This was controversial as Scott had publicly criticized the Maduro regime and companies investing in Venezuela.
2017: Support for Preexisting Conditions Protection
In 2017, Rick Scott, despite his previous criticism of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), expressed support for protecting individuals with preexisting conditions.
2017: Provisions of "Docs vs. Glocks" Law Struck Down
In 2017, the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit ruled that certain provisions of the "Docs vs. Glocks" law, including the restriction on doctors asking about gun ownership, were unconstitutional.
2017: Criticism for Handling of HIV Epidemic
Rick Scott faced criticism for his role in Florida's HIV epidemic during his time in office. His decision to return $54 million in unspent federal HIV-prevention grants and block $16 million in CDC grants to Miami-Dade and Broward counties, combined with his opposition to Medicaid expansion, was seen as contributing to the severity of the state's HIV crisis. In 2017, Florida accounted for 13% of the country's HIV diagnoses.
December 31, 2017: Net Worth Update
By December 31, 2017, Rick Scott's net worth had significantly grown to $232 million.
2017: Challenge to Instructional Materials Bill
In 2017, Rick Scott signed a bill (HB 989 and SB 1210) that allowed any Florida resident to challenge the use or adoption of instructional materials in public schools. This bill was supported by those who believed it would increase parental involvement in education, while critics argued it could lead to censorship, particularly on topics like climate change and evolution.
February 2018: US District Court Rules Scott's Voting Rights Restoration Process Unconstitutional
A US District Court issued a ruling in February 2018 that declared Rick Scott's process for restoring voting rights to former felons as unconstitutional. The court found the process to be arbitrary, lacking in clear standards, and overly discretionary, violating the rights of disenfranchised citizens.
February 2018: Support for Gun Control Measures After Parkland Shooting
Following the tragic Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida, in February 2018, Rick Scott expressed his support for increasing the minimum age to purchase firearms from 18 to 21 and implementing a ban on bump stocks. He also called for increased funding for mental health and school safety initiatives.
February 2018: A+ Rating from the NRA Political Victory Fund
As of February 2018, Rick Scott held an A+ rating from the NRA Political Victory Fund (NRA-PVF), a testament to his consistent support for gun rights.
March 2018: Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act Passed and Challenged
In March 2018, the Florida Legislature passed the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act, incorporating several measures advocated by Rick Scott, including raising the minimum age for firearm purchases to 21, implementing waiting periods and background checks, and banning bump stocks. However, on the same day that Scott signed the bill into law, the National Rifle Association filed a lawsuit challenging the provision raising the minimum purchase age.
April 9, 2018: Rick Scott Announces Candidacy for US Senate
On April 9, 2018, after much speculation, Rick Scott formally announced his decision to challenge incumbent Democrat Bill Nelson for a US Senate seat in the upcoming election.
June 2018: Silence on Trump Administration's Attempt to Weaken Preexisting Conditions Protections
During his 2018 Senate campaign, Rick Scott softened his criticism of the Affordable Care Act. However, when the Trump administration made efforts to remove provisions protecting individuals with preexisting conditions, Scott refrained from criticizing the administration, citing a lack of knowledge on the matter.
June 2018: Scott Opposes Trump Administration's Family Separation Policy
In June 2018, Rick Scott publicly opposed the Trump administration's policy of separating families at the US-Mexico border. He condemned the practice and called for it to end.
July 2018: Earnings from Cayman Islands Hedge Funds
In July 2018, a financial disclosure statement revealed that Rick Scott and his wife earned at least $2.9 million from hedge funds based in the Cayman Islands, a known tax haven. Although the assets were reportedly held in a blind trust, the disclosure raised questions.
July 2018: Judge Rules Against Scott's Ban on Early Voting on Campus
A judge issued a ruling in July 2018 against Rick Scott's prohibition of early voting on college and university campuses. The judge's decision stated that the ban demonstrated a clear pattern of discrimination.
August 2018: Net Worth Update
In August 2018, Rick Scott's net worth was estimated to be $255 million.
October 2018: Blind Trust Scrutiny
In October 2018, The New York Times reported that the blind trust established by Rick Scott to manage his holdings was not truly "blind." The report revealed that Scott had potential knowledge of his investments, which included companies that could be influenced by his administration's policies.
November 18, 2018: Rick Scott Wins Contentious US Senate Race
On November 18, 2018, following a recount triggered by a narrow margin, Florida election officials declared Rick Scott the winner of the US Senate race against incumbent Bill Nelson. Scott won by a slim margin of 10,033 votes, making it the most expensive Senate race in the nation that year.
December 4, 2018: Rick Scott Announces Completion of Gubernatorial Term
On December 4, 2018, Rick Scott's office announced that he would serve out his full term as governor of Florida, concluding on January 8, 2019, and would not resign early to assume his Senate seat.
2018: Job Creation Pledge Deemed "Promise Kept"
In 2018, PolitiFact reviewed Rick Scott's 2010 campaign promise of creating 700,000 jobs in Florida and ruled it a "Promise Kept".
2018: Water Management District Budget Cuts and Water Contamination Crisis
Controversy arose in 2018 when Florida experienced a water contamination crisis, with critics pointing to Rick Scott's $700 million in cuts to Florida's water management districts during his tenure as governor.
2018: Investigation Reveals Racial Disparities in Voting Rights Restoration Under Scott
An investigation conducted by the Palm Beach Post in 2018 revealed significant racial disparities in the restoration of voting rights under Rick Scott's governorship. The investigation found that white men were three times more likely to have their voting rights restored compared to black men, despite black individuals representing a disproportionately high percentage of those released from Florida's state prisons.
2018: Runs for US Senate
Barred by term limits from running for Governor again, Rick Scott successfully ran for the US Senate in 2018.
2018: Divestment from Firms Linked to Russia and Venezuela
By 2018, Rick Scott and his wife had divested from the firms connected to Russia and Venezuela.
2018: Wins US Senate Election
Rick Scott won the 2018 US Senate election against Democratic incumbent Bill Nelson, after a recount confirmed his narrow victory.
2018: Scott Supports Path to Citizenship for DREAMers
Rick Scott expressed his support for providing a path to citizenship for DREAMers in 2018, indicating a further shift in his stance on immigration.
2018: Scott Supports High-Speed Rail Project After Initially Opposing It
Rick Scott changed his position on the high-speed rail project between Tampa and Orlando in 2018, expressing support for the project after previously opposing it in 2011. He argued that budget surpluses could help fund the endeavor.
2018: Investment in and Support for All Aboard Florida Rail Project
In 2018, it was revealed that Rick Scott and his wife had invested at least $3 million in the parent company of All Aboard Florida, a company proposing a high-speed rail project between Orlando and Tampa. Scott supported the company's efforts to secure taxpayer funding for the project, despite having previously rejected federal funding for a similar rail project earlier in his term as governor.
January 3, 2019: Start of Rick Scott's Senate Term
Rick Scott's term as a US Senator for the 116th Congress commenced on January 3, 2019.
January 8, 2019: Assumes Office as US Senator
Rick Scott assumed office as the junior US Senator from Florida on January 8, 2019, after his term as Governor ended.
January 2019: Rick Scott Advocates for National Emergency Declaration
In January 2019, Rick Scott publicly encouraged President Trump to declare a national emergency to secure funding for a border wall if Congress failed to allocate the necessary funds.
February 2019: Decision to Stop Using a Blind Trust
In February 2019, Rick Scott announced that he would no longer utilize a blind trust for his financial holdings.
February 2019: Rick Scott Supports Trump's National Emergency Declaration
Following through on his earlier encouragement, Rick Scott expressed his support for President Trump's declaration of a national emergency in February 2019.
April 2019: Rick Scott's Stance on the Crisis in Venezuela
During the escalating crisis in Venezuela in April 2019, Rick Scott called for stronger US action, characterizing the Maduro regime's actions as "genocide." This claim was disputed by fact-checkers and experts. Scott advocated for the US to strategically position its military, indicating a readiness to intervene in the situation.
2019: Start of Senate Term
Rick Scott became the junior United States Senator from Florida in 2019.
May 2020: Rick Scott Supports Amendment for Warrant Requirement on Web Search Data Collection
In May 2020, Rick Scott demonstrated his commitment to privacy rights by voting in favor of an amendment that would mandate federal agencies to obtain a warrant before collecting web search data from US citizens or residents under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA).
September 3, 2020: Report Released on Scott-Appointed Sheriff's Predictive Policing Program
On September 3, 2020, the Tampa Bay Times published an investigative report scrutinizing a "predictive policing" program implemented by Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco, who was appointed by Rick Scott in 2011. The report raised concerns about the program's reliance on unproven algorithms and its use of military tactics.
September 18, 2020: Rick Scott's Position on Supreme Court Vacancy
Following the death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg on September 18, 2020, Rick Scott aligned himself with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, advocating for the immediate appointment and confirmation of a replacement before the upcoming presidential election.
November 10, 2020: Rick Scott Elected as NRSC Chair
Running unopposed, Rick Scott secured the position of Chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) on November 10, 2020, succeeding Senator Todd Young.
2020: Net Worth Estimation
In 2020, Business Insider reported that Rick Scott's minimum net worth was just over $200 million, based on financial disclosure reports.
2020: Rick Scott's Vote on Electoral College Objections
In the aftermath of the 2020 presidential election, Rick Scott joined other Republicans in objecting to the certification of electoral votes from certain states. While he voted to sustain the objection for Pennsylvania, he voted against the objection regarding Arizona. Ultimately, both objections were defeated in the Senate.
March 2021: Rick Scott Opposes American Rescue Plan Act
Rick Scott opposed the American Rescue Plan Act, a major economic stimulus bill passed in March 2021, and urged states to refuse federal aid offered by the package.
April 2021: Rick Scott Seeks NRSC Chairmanship
In April 2021, Rick Scott announced his candidacy for the chairmanship of the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC), a move that highlighted his growing influence within the Republican Party.
May 2021: Rick Scott Votes Against January 6th Commission
In May 2021, Rick Scott voted against the formation of an independent commission tasked with investigating the January 6th attack on the US Capitol.
September 2021: Rick Scott's Sale of Emida Corporation Stock
Rick Scott and his wife sold stock in Emida Corporation, worth up to $450,000, in September 2021.
February 22, 2022: Release of the 11-Point Plan to Rescue America
On February 22, 2022, Senator Scott introduced his 11-Point Plan to Rescue America. The plan, which drew significant criticism, included proposals such as requiring all Americans to pay income tax, imposing a five-year sunset clause on federal legislation, and eliminating the Department of Education. It also targeted social issues, proposing measures like banning transgender women from women's sports and prohibiting the teaching of critical race theory.
March 10, 2022: Rick Scott's Opposition to Ukraine Funding Bill
On March 10, 2022, Rick Scott was among the Republican senators who voted against a significant spending bill that allocated $13.6 billion in military aid to Ukraine, arguing that the bill was laden with extraneous spending.
June 8, 2022: Revision of the 11-Point Plan to Rescue America
On June 8, 2022, Senator Scott revised his 11-Point Plan. The revised plan replaced the income tax proposal with a provision limiting government assistance for able-bodied individuals under 60 without dependents who are not working. It also added a 12th point focusing on tax cuts.
June 2022: Rick Scott Supports Overturning of Roe v. Wade
Following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in June 2022, Rick Scott expressed his support for the ruling, characterizing the landmark abortion rights case as based on "flawed legal reasoning." He praised the court's decision as a defense of "human dignity" and an affirmation of states' rights.
August 2022: Rick Scott's STOCK Act Violation
An investigation by Business Insider in August 2022 revealed that Rick Scott had violated the STOCK Act of 2012, a law requiring timely disclosure of certain financial transactions by members of Congress. Scott failed to disclose the sale of stock in Emida Corporation, worth up to $450,000, within the 45-day window mandated by the law.
August 2022: Rick Scott Discourages IRS Job Applications
In August 2022, Rick Scott penned an open letter discouraging individuals from applying for newly created positions at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). He pledged that if Republicans gained control of Congress in January 2023, they would move to "defund" these positions. The letter sparked controversy for its inclusion of a statement that suggested IRS agents would be "willing to kill" taxpayers.
November 14, 2022: Rick Scott Challenges Mitch McConnell for Senate Leadership
On November 14, 2022, Rick Scott launched a bid to unseat Mitch McConnell as Senate Minority Leader for the 118th Congress. This marked the first challenge to McConnell's leadership since 2006. Scott criticized the party's performance in the recent elections and called for a change in leadership. He received support from a small group of senators but ultimately lost to McConnell by a significant margin.
2022: Senate Bills Sponsorship and Stance on Capital Punishment
In 2022, Senator Rick Scott sponsored or co-sponsored several significant bills, including the Sunshine Protection Act, the PROTECT Kids Act, the National Defense Authorization Act, and the END FENTANYL Act. He also expressed support for automatic capital punishment for school shooters following the Covenant School shooting in Nashville.
January 2023: Potential Defunding of IRS Positions
Rick Scott pledged that if Republicans took control of Congress in January 2023, they would move to defund IRS positions.
2023: Swatting Incident
Rick Scott was a victim of swatting in December 2023, as part of a larger swatting campaign targeting American politicians.
2023: Rick Scott Votes Against Fiscal Responsibility Act
Rick Scott was among the 31 Senate Republicans who opposed the final version of the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023.
January 2024: Vote Against Human Rights Provisions for Israel Aid
In January 2024, Senator Scott voted against a resolution that would have linked U.S. military aid to Israel with human rights considerations.
2024: Seeks Re-election to the Senate
Rick Scott is running for re-election to the US Senate in 2024 against Democratic nominee Debbie Mucarsel-Powell.