For those who have opposed COVID lockdowns and mandates, Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has been something of a hero, at least for many.  Some people don’t know or forget that DeSantis actually did lock down Florida in April 2020.

Luckily, he realized his mistake quickly.  I have no idea how much of it was political instinct and how much of it was a genuine appreciation for liberty and common sense.  By September 2020, Florida was completely open and the only mandates left were some mask ordinances from county/ local governments.  Most of the rest of the United States still had major restrictions at the state level.

When I became aware of a lockdown in Florida in late March 2020 (set for April), I was referring to DeSantis as Dictator DeSantis to my friends and family.  I wrote an email to DeSantis and the mayor where I live.  I recently came across those emails, which are almost identical.

Here is a copy of my email to DeSantis on March 31, 2020.  I am only leaving off my personal information at the end. Everything else is word for word.

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Dear Governor DeSantis,

With all of the fear surrounding the coronavirus, there have been major business shutdowns, stay-at-home orders, and other measures taken by government officials at all levels.  I am absolutely opposed to any such measures from the government, whether it is at the federal, state, or local level.  If people feel they are at risk, they can voluntarily stay at home and isolate themselves from others.  Just because there is fear of a pandemic, it does not entitle anyone to become a dictator.  That includes mayors, governors, and the president.  I urge you to resist calling for any more government shutdowns and to immediately repeal those shutdowns that were already ordered.  This is for the sake of liberty and our economic future.

Sincerely,

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As you can see, I was firm, but relatively polite.  I have no idea if this had any impact at all.  But I know that some politicians just need some encouragement at times to do what is right.  Sometimes they need to hear from others to gain enough courage to do the right thing.

I feel fortunate to have lived (and continue to live) in Florida during a time of hysteria, panic, and government totalitarianism.  I realize how much better my family and me had it compared to others.