© 2025 WGCU News
PBS and NPR for Southwest Florida
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Stakeholders React To Governor's Call For Blocking Syrian Refugees

Topher Forhecz
/
WGCU

 

Some state representatives want to block President Barrack Obama’s plan to resettle 425 Syrian refugees in Florida. Governor Rick Scott expressed this in a letter to Congress on Monday, after finding out at least one of the terrorists who attacked Paris last week was disguised as a Syrian refugee. But an advocacy group said there’s no reason Floridians should fear these refugees.

Republican Representative Dane Eagle of Cape Coral said his heart goes out to the displaced Syrians. But he said he stands with Governor Scott.

“The paramount concern at this time is the safety of our own. The safety of Floridians. The safety of the people I was elected to represent,” said Eagle. 

He said he does not have faith in the federal government’s measures of ensuring safety. But Travis Trice said the country’s refugee resettlement process is solid. Trice works with World Relief Jacksonville, an international Christian humanitarian organization.

“We are praying for Governor Scott," said Trice. "And when we hear these disappointing remarks from governors... it undermines public perspective of our intelligence community.”

He said refugees have to pass many interviews and tests. And Trice said it can take a minimum of 18 months before refugees even begin talks with the state department.

As of now, at least 30 governors across the country object to housing Syrian refugees. 

Jessica Meszaros is a reporter and host of Morning Edition at WUSF Public Media, and former reporter and host of All Things Considered for WGCU News.
Trusted by over 30,000 local subscribers

Local News, Right Sized for Your Morning

Quick briefs when you are busy, deeper explainers when it matters, delivered early morning and curated by WGCU editors.

  • Environment
  • Local politics
  • Health
  • And more

Free and local. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

More from WGCU
  • Gray Catbirds are in a bird family known as the “Mimidae” – because they mimic other birds, other animals, and even mechanical sounds. Other members of their family in Florida include the Brown Thrasher and the Northern Mockingbird – two excellent mimics that we often see and hear year-round as they feed, sing, and nest in relatively open vegetation. They often mimic the vocalizations of other bird species and it has been suggested that their mimicry may send the message that the area is crowded – and cause other birds to search for food elsewhere.
  • Residents and visitors once again may enjoy convenient, stress-free travel to some of Lee County’s most popular destinations as LeeTran resumes free seasonal trolley and tram services. Connectivity and timing improvements made to other LeeTran routes.
  •  As the nation prepares to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection invites Floridians to reflect on the people and places that shaped the nation’s story and the service members who have safeguarded it. On Veterans Day, Tuesday, Nov. 11, Florida State Parks will offer free admission for all visitors to recognize and thank those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.