WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott introduced a resolution, cosponsored by Senator Marco Rubio, honoring the memory of Jereima ‘‘Jeri’’ Bustamante, Senator Scott’s former press secretary, who was lost in a tragic accident six years ago on April 8, 2018.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I can’t believe it’s been six years since the world lost Jeri. Six years since we saw her bright smile, heard her contagious laughter or felt her magnetic and kind presence when she entered a room. Jeri will forever hold a special place in the hearts of all of us who had the honor of meeting her, because she would automatically become your best friend and biggest cheerleader. She was always quick to offer a helping hand to others working to achieve their dreams as she pursued her American dream of one day standing at the White House press podium. And Jeri would have gotten there – she was an unstoppable force. As we traveled the state for long days of events when I was governor, I was amazed at how she captivated everyone around her, gaining the respect of Floridians and members of the press and never losing her positive attitude. When I practice my Spanish, spend days in Washington talking to reporters, like Jeri dreamed of doing, I hope I’m making her proud. So many people on my team had the privilege of working with and knowing Jeri, and today we honor her memory and the endless joy she brought us and the world.”

Senator Marco Rubio said, “As we mark the sixth anniversary since Jeri Bustamante's tragic death, we pay tribute to the everlasting contributions she made to both our state and nation. Bustamante personified the American Dream. May her memory continue to be a blessing for her family, friends, and former coworkers.”

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