Naples Standard

Congressman Byron Donalds, who represents Florida’s 19th district in the U.S. Congress, has recently shared a series of statements on social media addressing various issues. These include reflections on free speech, an aviation incident in Toronto, and concerns about hostages held by Hamas.

On February 17, 2025, Congressman Donalds quoted Frederick Douglass to emphasize the importance of free speech. He stated: "To suppress free speech is a double wrong. It violates the rights of the hearer as well as those of the speaker. It is just as criminal to rob a man of his right to speak and hear as it would be to rob him of his money."

Later that day, Donalds addressed an aviation incident in Toronto where a commuter jet from Minnesota flipped over upon landing at Pearson International Airport. He reported: "This afternoon in Toronto, a commuter jet flying from Minnesota to Pearson Int'l Airport flipped-over upon landing. At this time, it's been reported that all 80 people on-board were evacuated and 8 were injured. Erika and I pray for the passengers, the crew, and their families."

On February 18, 2025, Donalds highlighted ongoing concerns regarding hostages held by Hamas terrorists. He noted: "It has been 500 DAYS since genocidal Hamas terrorists committed the worst mass-murder of Jews since the Holocaust and other unspeakable war crimes. TO THIS DAY, Hamas is STILL holding 21 y/o Edan Alexander of NJ hostage and the remains of 4 other Americans. BRING THEM ALL HOME."