



The Holden Update



News and Information for Voters of the 19th Congressional District

Cape Coral, Sanibel, Captiva, Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs, Naples, Marco Island, Pine Island

New poll: David Holden within striking distance of defeating incumbent Francis Rooney



David Holden is within striking distance of victory against incumbent congressman Francis Rooney, according to a new poll.



The poll surveyed 468 registered voters in Florida’s 19th Congressional District from Sept. 10 to 12. It was conducted by Change Research, the only polling firm to accurately predict Florida’s Gubernatorial Primary Election victory for Andrew Gillum.



The poll showed Holden trailing Rooney by only a single point — 46 to 47 percent — well within the plus or minus 4-point margin of error. The remaining 7 percent of voters were still undecided.



“We have the strongest grassroots movement Southwest Florida’s seen in decades,” Holden said. “We’re going to close that 1-percent gap and then some. We’re less than 50 days out from Election Day and with the momentum we’ve built up to this point, we’re going to flip Southwest Florida and implement the solutions our community needs.”



Holden repeated his challenge to Rooney to debate the issues in a public forum, something Rooney so far has refused to do. “We’re ready anytime, anywhere,” said Holden.

Where in the world is Francis ‘Red Tide’ Rooney?



Click to the image watch the report

Since David Holden issued his challenge to Francis Rooney to six debates “anywhere, anytime,” no response has been received nor has Rooney made any appearances open to the general public to address the issues of Southwest Florida.



The elusive Rooney was spotted, however, with former Governor Rick Scott when the latter fled red tide protesters in Venice, Florida on Sept. 18 and canceled a campaign stop in Naples (inside the 19th Congressional District).



WINK-TV reporter Oliver Redsten had to pursue Scott’s bus for 10 miles to get a comment after Scott turned tail — with Francis Rooney by his side — following his confrontation with angry victims of the red tide.



Scott has been dubbed “Red Tide Rick” by angry Floridians for his neglect of environmental needs, cutting the budget of state environmental agencies and denial of climate change. "Red Tide" Rooney has called for “reining in” the federal Environmental Protection Agency and voted to cut its budget.

To see the WINK-TV report, click here.

Upcoming events



David Holden Speaking at the Democratic Club of Shell Point Meeting



Join David at the Democratic Club of Shell Point’s general meeting to hear his vision for how we can move this country forward!



Who: David Holden

What: David will speak at the Shell Point Democratic Club weekly meeting

Where: 15101 Shell Point Blvd Fort Myers, FL 33908

When: 10:15 a.m. - Noon, Saturday, Sep. 22



David Holden speaking at Moms Demand Action's Weekend of Action

David has been named a Gun Sense Candidate by Moms Demand Action and he will never accept money from the NRA. Join David in Fort Myers on Saturday to learn more about his plan to reduce gun violence.



Who: David Holden

What: David will speak at the Democratic Headquarters during the Moms Demand Action Weekend of Action

Where: Democratic Party of Lee County HQ, 10051 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919

When: Noon - 12:30 p.m., Saturday, Sep. 22 From the Campaign Trail David Holden joins concerned voters on the Matlacha Pass Bridge at Save the Water hosted by Pine Island ROAR on Saturday, Sep. 15.

David Holden speaking to voters on the Matlacha Pass Bridge on Saturday, Sep. 15. Holden later tweeted, "The ongoing toxic algae blooms and red tide are damaging the #SWFL way of life and the habitats upon which our economy and wildlife depend. We deserve better." – Photos by Zack Rothman

David Holden spars with radio host and former congressman Trey Radel during a radio interview on Sept. 17 at the studio of 92.5 FM.

Holden meets with the Editorial Board of the Naples Daily News on Sept. 18. Around the table: Allen Bartlett, editorial writer; Thom Witt, editorial and opinion editor; Brent Batten, columnist; Maryann Batlle, Bonita Banner editor; and Jigsha Desai, digital director. – Photos by David Silverberg Why I’m with David: Campaign volunteers share their experiences This week: Jo Flannagan

I first heard David Holden speak at the Fort Myers "March for your Lives" rally following the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shootings. On that sad day, his remarks stood out. While supporting the rights of gun owners, he denounced civilian access to military weapons.



I have since encountered Holden at other events. He is optimistic, confident, and enthusiastic. He doesn't dwell on negativity but recognizes difficult problems. He would be willing to work with and compromise with fellow members of Congress. Holden is compassionate. He knows that senior citizens can become collateral damage of revised health care policies and of tax cuts. He cares about education, clean water, and the environment. His promises are tempered by reality and prioritized by the needs of citizens of Southwest Florida.



I heard Francis Rooney speak at a town hall meeting. He was aloof. When a young teacher expressed concern about public schools losing revenue to private and charter schools, he was visibly unmoved as he shrugged off her question.

The right choice seems clear.



Want to share your story telling us why you’re working for David Holden for Congress? Send an email with subject line “Volunteer testimonial” and no more than two paragraphs to DSilverberg@Holden2018.com. Volunteer with Team Holden!

Team Holden is seeking volunteers to assist in the critical areas of canvassing, phone-banking, and research. Opportunities are available at both our Cape Coral and Naples offices. If you are interested in joining our team, please visit our volunteer signup page by clicking HERE