Rep. Byron Donalds Discusses Florida’s Vaccination Policy

On CBS’s “Face the Nation” this past Sunday, host Margaret Brennan engaged Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) in a discussion regarding Florida’s vaccination strategy in light of a measles outbreak affecting the state.

Donalds, who is running as the Republican nominee for governor of Florida, attributed the outbreak to illegal immigration that he claims has been inadequately addressed by the Biden administration.

DONALDS: I think focusing on costs and healthcare, working to stabilize prices, is a much more constructive conversation than vaccinations alone.

BRENNAN: Certainly. But we also need to consider how those vaccinations are covered and the costs involved. I understand that many people are curious about those details.

However, for the sake of public health, most of Florida falls short of the 95% immunization rate needed for herd immunity against measles. So, are you advising Florida parents to ensure their kids are vaccinated for that disease?

DONALDS: No. My message to Floridians—and frankly, all Americans—is that the recent measles outbreak in certain areas stems from unchecked illegal immigration into the country during the previous administration.

Before Joe Biden took office, our borders were largely secure—

BRENNAN: What evidence supports that claim?

DONALDS: Just look at the outbreaks in El Paso, Texas, and southwest Florida, including areas where individuals have entered illegally without proper vaccination schedules. And I’m not just talking about current vaccinations for young kids; I’m referring to instances where individuals didn’t receive vaccines for measles, mumps, or rubella.

BRENNAN: So you advocate for vaccinations?

DONALDS: The main issue is we need to manage immigration effectively. We can’t have a segment of over 10 million individuals enter the country without appropriate vaccinations; that’s how outbreaks occur.

BRENNAN: Right.

DONALDS: Secondly, while we can discuss vaccinations, the real concern in healthcare is the cost burden on Americans, especially Floridians.

BRENNAN: Absolutely.

DONALDS: The Affordable Care Act’s regulatory framework has been driving up costs for everyone.

BRENNAN: I see.

DONALDS: That’s where I want to concentrate my efforts as the next governor of Florida.

BRENNAN: So, you prefer vaccinated immigrants?

DONALDS: Actually, I am advocating solely for legal immigrants.

BRENNAN: Uh-huh. Understood.

DONALDS: Just to clarify, I support legal immigration that encourages assimilation.