A press conference headed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Tuesday, May 6, took an unexpected turn when State Senator Ileana Garcia, representing Florida’s District 36, fainted during her speech on environmental legislation.
While addressing the audience, Garcia indicated to DeSantis, who was nearby, that she was feeling unwell and needed to sit. Her eyes closed, and she began to lean to one side, risking a fall.
Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, present at the event, quickly responded by rushing to her side, catching her before she fell and assisting her into a chair.
“We’ve got you,” Ladapo reassured Garcia as he attended to her.
The audience immediately reacted, with several individuals moving to support Garcia. Governor DeSantis and others provided water and tried to cool her, offering support during what was likely a disconcerting moment for the senator.
Despite the incident, Garcia quickly recovered. After about one minute of rest, she regained her balance, stood up, and returned to the podium to finish her speech.
Upon resuming, Garcia lightheartedly remarked that she couldn’t miss her moment. She continued her remarks on environmental legislation, much to the appreciation of the attendees.
The press conference in Miami, Florida, focused on major environmental policy changes. Before Garcia’s address, Governor DeSantis had announced plans to prevent local governments from adding fluoride to public drinking water in the state without state approval.
DeSantis expressed concern about “forced medication” with fluoride in public water, acknowledging its dental health benefits but noting that alternatives are available. He argued that fluoridating water removes personal choice for those wishing to avoid potential overexposure.
Garcia later described the experience as nerve-wracking but thanked Governor DeSantis for his composure during the incident. DeSantis, a former U.S. Navy officer who served in Iraq, was seen smiling at the end of Garcia’s speech, seemingly impressed by her resolve.
The reason for Garcia’s fainting was not immediately clear. However, the quick response by Surgeon General Ladapo and the support from DeSantis and others ensured that the situation was managed efficiently with minimal disruption.
Garcia’s swift recovery and determination to complete her speech earned praise from other officials. Miami-Dade Commissioner Roberto Gonzalez commended her perseverance, highlighting her commitment to advocating for Florida residents.
Garcia, representing parts of Miami-Dade County, has been an active proponent of environmental issues in Florida’s legislature.
Footage of the incident has circulated online, capturing Ladapo’s prompt assistance and Garcia’s subsequent recovery and return to the podium.
