U.S. Representative Charlie Crist (D-St. Petersburg) released the following statement ahead of President Trump's inaugural State of the Union. Crist has invited Clearwater resident Dani Hall, a medical marijuana advocate, to view the speech from the House Gallery. Her story highlights the negative impact that cracking down on medical marijuana, as proposed by the U.S. Attorney General, would have on families in Florida and other states that allow medical marijuana. More on her story here.

"As co-chair of the Honor and Civility Caucus, I hope the President will take this opportunity to reshape the discussion in Washington – leaving behind the divisive and partisan rhetoric that has too often dominated our national conversation. Bipartisanship and cooperation are needed to move our country forward, to address the many urgent challenges facing our nation. A great place to start would be with robust infrastructure investment, so important to Florida. A vision for our nation’s transportation policy that focuses on improving the flow of people and goods, creating jobs and resulting in higher wages would be well received," said Crist. "The President must further make clear how he will work with Congress to finalize a bipartisan deal to protect our DREAMers, preserving our country as a beacon of hope to the rest of the world. Only with presidential leadership can a thoughtful bill move through Congress.

"I am also honored to have Clearwater resident Dani Hall in attendance at tonight's speech. It's my hope that her story inspires compassion, serving as a reminder to the administration that medical marijuana relieves suffering, and states that have chosen this path should not be punished.

"Tonight is an opportunity to set a new tone, putting the people, ALL AMERICANS, first. It’s an opportunity I pray the President takes, remembering the Golden Rule that we should all strive to live by every day."