A press conference led by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis took an unexpected turn on Tuesday, May 6, when State Senator Ileana Garcia, representing Florida’s District 36, temporarily lost consciousness while discussing proposed environmental legislation.
Garcia was speaking at the podium when she signaled to DeSantis, who was offscreen, that she felt unwell and needed to sit down. Her eyes closed and her body began to lean, posing a risk of her falling.
Fortunately, Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo was present and acted swiftly. He rushed to Garcia’s side, preventing her fall and assisting her into a chair.
“We’ve got you,” Ladapo repeatedly assured Garcia as he assisted her.
The audience reacted quickly, with several attendees moving to assist Garcia. Governor DeSantis and others provided water and attempted to cool her down, offering support during the incident.
Despite the incident, Garcia showed resilience. After about one minute of rest, she recovered, stood up, and returned to the podium to finish her speech.
Once back at the microphone, Garcia joked about the situation, stating that this was her moment and she couldn’t miss it. She then continued her remarks on environmental legislation, earning admiration from attendees.
The press conference in Miami, Florida, focused on significant environmental policy changes. Before Garcia’s speech, Governor DeSantis had announced plans to prevent local governments from adding fluoride to public drinking water statewide without state approval.
DeSantis expressed concerns over “forced medication” with fluoride in public water supplies, acknowledging its dental health benefits but advocating for personal choice to avoid potential overexposure.
Garcia later described the experience as nerve-wracking, expressing gratitude to Governor DeSantis for his support during the situation. The governor, a former U.S. Navy officer and Iraq war veteran, was seen smiling at the conclusion of her speech, seemingly impressed by her resolve.
The cause of Garcia’s fainting was not immediately clear. However, the prompt response by Surgeon General Ladapo, along with support from Governor DeSantis and others, ensured that the situation was managed effectively.
Garcia’s quick recovery and determination to complete her speech received praise from fellow officials. Miami-Dade Commissioner Roberto Gonzalez commended her perseverance, emphasizing her commitment to advocating for Florida residents.
Garcia, representing parts of Miami-Dade County, is an active advocate on environmental issues in Florida’s legislature.
The incident’s video has circulated online, showing Ladapo’s swift assistance and Garcia’s subsequent recovery and return to the podium.