MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — President Joe Biden on Tuesday lashed out at Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis as “Donald Trump incarnate,” focusing on a potential 2024 GOP presidential candidate as he was campaigning for Democrats facing tough fights in next week’s midterm election.

In a final week sprint for Democrats ahead of Election Day, Biden will campaign in New Mexico on Thursday, California on Friday and Pennsylvania on Saturday. By many accounts, Democratic control of Congress and several state houses is in jeopardy, and Biden is trying to stem that tide.

In Florida, a state known to be popular with retirees, he focused on federal programs for the elderly and those less well-off. He said the current crop of GOP candidates “isn’t your dad’s Republican party” and said he prayed for God to deliver “clarification” to his opponents.

After those remarks in Hallandale Beach, he headlined a fundraiser for gubernatorial candidate Charlie Crist in Golden Beach. He capped off his day in Florida with a rally at Florida Memorial University, a historically black university, for the state’s Democratic Party, including Crist and Senate candidate Val Demings.

At the event for Crist, Biden made the personal stakes against DeSantis, a major White House opponent of Biden. Biden suggested DeSantis was just another version of former President Trump and criticized him for “demonizing the LGBTQ population.”

“For me, this is one of the most important races in the country,” Biden said. “Charlie runs against Donald Trump incarnate.”

Crist noted that DeSantis would not commit during a gubernatorial debate last week to serving his full four-year term if re-elected.

“Governor DeSantis only cares about the White House, he doesn’t care about your house,” Crist told the audience.

The president’s scathing attacks on DeSantis stood in stark contrast to their cordial encounter earlier in October when Biden traveled to Florida to view the devastation wrought by Hurricane Ian. In front of the cameras, Biden said DeSantis was doing a “good job” managing the recovery from the storm. The Republican governor officially welcomed Biden to his state and praised the collaboration between officials on the ground and the federal government in Washington.

The story continues

But on Tuesday in Florida, Biden shot DeSantis.

At one point, during his evening remarks at the Florida Memorial, Biden recalled that Crist – who had previously served as governor from 2007 to 2011 as a Republican – “was a great governor before and will make an even greater governor again. because of who he goes. To replace. »

Minutes later, Biden noted that the nearby port of Miami had recently received a $16 million federal grant because of one of its biggest legislative victories: the $1 trillion infrastructure legislation. He then pivoted to DeSantis.

“I’m sure your governor will take credit for it somewhere along the line,” Biden said.

The president also blasted Republicans who have come to light on the attack on Paul Pelosi, the husband of Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. He asked how such a political onslaught could happen and “no one in this party is condemning it for exactly what it is.”

In Hallandale Beach, he hit out at Demings’ Senate Republican opponent, incumbent Marco Rubio, for failing to support his Cut Inflation Act, passed in August by the Democratic-led Congress.

It includes several health care provisions popular among the elderly and less well-off, including a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket medical expenses and a $35 per month cap per insulin prescription. It forces companies that raise prices faster than overall inflation to pay a rebate to Medicare.

“Not a single Republican voted for this in the United States Senate,” Biden told a crowd at a community center in Hallandale Beach. “Every lone Republican in Congress voted against these savings, including Senator Rubio.”

Biden’s appearances with Crist and Demings came after some of the Democrats’ most beleaguered candidates, including Georgia Sen. Raphael Warnock and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, opted out of appearing with him.

Still, the president’s advisers insist he can be helpful in talking about GOP policies they deem objectionable to voters.

Meanwhile, Republicans are optimistic about their prospects across Florida as voter registration trends and changing demographics suggest the state will continue to shift to the right.

Democrats are particularly concerned about the trend in Miami-Dade County, home to 1.5 million voting-age Hispanics. It’s been a Democratic stronghold for 20 years, but the GOP made significant gains in the last presidential election. Republicans, including Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nunez, predict the region will turn red on Nov. 8.

If the Democrats lose Miami-Dade, it could virtually eliminate their path to victory in Florida statewide contests, including presidential elections, in the future.

Biden seized on Florida Sen. Rick Scott’s February proposal to end all federal laws after five years, which the president said would force Congress to reauthorize Medicare and Social Security, as hallmarks of what he called the “ultra-MAGA” agenda that Democrats are running against.

Biden, who often ends his speech by asking, “God save our troops,” offered a salty addendum with his Hallandale Beach remarks.

“God, enlighten some of our Republican friends,” Biden said.

___

Associated Press national political writer Steve Peoples in New York contributed to this story.

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Follow AP coverage of the 2022 midterm elections at https://apnews.com/hub/2022-midterm-elections

Jackie Poole has slowly begun renovating the Central Queensland home she shares with her husband and two sons.

She says since the family bought the Rockhampton home in 2015, they’ve turned it into their “dream home” – almost.

‘We are hoping to get the kitchen refurbished which would involve extending out onto the terrace and knocking down a few walls,’ Ms Poole said.

“We are also considering changing the roof and floor a bit.”

But she says the family wants nothing more than a swimming pool.

She says it would be ideal for her four and six-year-old sons as the hot Rockhampton summer approaches.

“The boys have both just learned to swim and it’s going to get hot.”

The family was so excited to build one that they had the hole dug for the pool during previous renovations in 2018.

But Ms Poole says her plans have since been derailed.

She says she struggled to find a builder to complete one of her renovations until mid-2024.

“I was shocked,” she said.

Labor shortages and price hikes are hampering the industry

Mitch McDouall runs Acute Builders in central Queensland serving an area from Monto to St Lawrence and west to Alpha.

He says he is far from short of work.

“The other day we booked a job with a former client for 2024 and it’s probably a four month project, so yeah it will take us into 2025.”

Mr. McDouall says he and many other builders are working through a backlog.

“It seems like a weekly occurrence now that we’re saying no to jobs,” he says.

“It’s definitely a tough conversation to have.

“But physically we can’t do more work than we currently are.”

He says a labor shortage is hampering the industry’s ability to meet demand.

“Traders and apprentices, they’re both pretty hard to find,” he says.

“It’s also difficult because a few more guys won’t really make a difference; you need more supervisors as well as more tradesmen.”

McDouall says labor shortages combined with rising costs are making it a tough market for consumers.

“There have been a lot of people who are quite shocked by the amount of price increases, myself included,” he says.

“So we try to get through it quickly and efficiently, so the better it is for them in terms of money.”

Unique moment for builders

According to Master Builders regional manager Dean Phillips, although consumers are paying more, builders are actually worse off.

Mr Phillips says a labor shortage and supply chain issues are contributing to construction delays in the industry.

“The material and supply chain shortages we saw as a result of COVID have not gone away,” he says.

“And there just hasn’t been commercial availability to get jobs as quickly as we would like.

“There is a skills shortage in general and a significant labor shortage.”

But despite the challenges, Mr Phillips says it’s a unique time to be a builder in the industry.

“They’re kind of in the box seat, the trades have all the power when it comes to negotiations,” he says.

“They are finally being paid as they deserve.

Ms Poole says it’s not an ideal situation, but they’re happy to wait for the job to be done right.

“It certainly comes down to everything that goes on behind the scenes that we can’t really have control over,” she says.

“I have no choice but to keep dreaming for a while.

“The hole [for the pool] sort of filled up with water, so I guess we could probably swim if we were desperate.”

Another fall weekend has arrived and it’s filled to the brim with great events and activities!

Plan your days with our checklist of 15 fantastic events happening in Metro Vancouver from October 21-23. Diwali Fest, burlesque tribute to Kate Bush, and more.

And for more fun things happening around town, be sure to check out our Listed section.

Diwali Festival 2022

What: Diwali Fest celebrates the return of in-person events this year, and many events bring food, entertainment and fun to downtown Vancouver.

Enjoy a virtual Diwali Stories With Vancouver Public Library event on Thursday, October 20. Online reading of Archie celebrates Diwali will be presented live by author Mithali Banerjee Ruths.

See you at the VPL Central Branch on Friday, October 21 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. for Diwali @ Vancouver Public Library. There will be music and dance performances, delicious chai will be served and diya painting throughout the evening for attendees.

This year’s festivities will culminate on Sunday, October 23 from 2-5 p.m. with Diwali Downtown Vancouver at the Roundhouse Community Centre. Visitors will be treated to live performances, an interactive rangoli installation and fun activities for children during the afternoon.

When: October 20, 21 and 23, 2022
Time: Various times
Where: Various locations, see website for details
Cost: Free or on donation

For the Love of Winter – An Arc’teryx Showcase

What: Arc’teryx, in collaboration with Moment Factory, invites Vancouverites to find new inspiration with the launch of their Winter 2022 collection.

Global projections and sonic dreamscapes come together in a multi-sensory event that will transport guests seamlessly to the heart of Vancouver’s Coastal Mountains. Visitors can preview adventure-ready gear while joining like-minded thrill seekers.

When: October 23 to 25, 2022
Time: 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. (Sunday), 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Monday and Tuesday)
Where: Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Center West Building. Entrance located at Jack Poole Plaza – 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver
Cost: Free but registration required. Register online

Double Murder: Clowns/The Solution

What: UK-based Hofesh Shechter Company, a groundbreaking dance company, presents Double Murder: Clowns/The Solution to kick off DanceHouse’s 15th anniversary season. Clowns is a macabre comedy of murder and desire, while The fix is described as “providing a raw and compassionate moment to balance the forces of aggression that weigh on us daily”.

When: October 21 and 22, 2022
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: Vancouver Theater – 600 Hamilton Street, Vancouver
Tickets: From $35, purchase online

Go on a ghostly walking tour with Forbidden Vancouver

Forbidden Vancouver/Submitted

What: Follow the lamplight and learn about Vancouver’s gruesome and tragic history on the Lost Souls of Gastown tour. Now in its 11th consecutive year, the walking tour immerses visitors in an interactive theatrical experience as they journey deep into the historic district.

When: Now until October 31, 2022
Time: Various hours, with additional hours on weekends and Halloween week.
Where: Starts at the corner of Water and Cordova streets, next to the Buro cafe
Cost: $32 for adults and $29 for students and seniors. Online purchase

Vancouver Canucks vs. Buffalo Sabers

What: The Canucks host the Buffalo Sabers at Rogers Arena for their season opener on October 22.

When: October 22, 2022
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Cost: Miscellaneous, buy online

Vancouver Fall Home Show 2022

What: The Vancouver Fall Home Show is back for its 40th year with hundreds of local experts under one roof. Keynote presenters include Sebastian Clovis, renovator and host of HGTV Canada’s Gut Job; Tiffany Pratt, designer, author and co-host of Food Network’s Bake-Over project, and Megan Golightly, professional organizer and owner of GoSimplified. Plus, you can find the latest trends in decorating, remodeling, cooking, and more for your home.

When: October 20 to 23, 2022
Time: 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Thursday), 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Friday), 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Saturday), 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Sunday)
Where: West Vancouver Convention Center – 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver
Cost: Early Bird price (before October 20) $12, regular adult price (13+) $16, seniors (60+) $11, half-price adult and senior tickets daily after 4 p.m. $8, children 12 and under are free. Buy your tickets online

SWEET from the world of science: fear

Scientific World/Facebook

What: Science World’s Extravagant Teen Parties, or SWEETs, invite 13-18 year olds to step into the dome and learn all about fear. Participants will discover what happens to their brain and body when they are afraid. They will also learn how to create scary content to share with others.

Teens can take a trip to Science World’s haunted theater, learn how to create their own special effects, and even try virtual reality horror. The Triple O and Gallery spaces will also be open.

When: October 21, 2022
Time: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Science World at TELUS World of Science – 1455 Quebec Street
Cost: Free for young people aged 13 to 18, online registration

Live Band Burlesque Tribute to Kate Bush

What: The timeless music of Kate Bush comes to life at the Rio Theater with the burlesque experience of live band Burgundy Brixx. Whether you are a lifelong fan or a new discoverer of Bush thanks to stranger thingsyou’ll enjoy The Hot & Heavy Band with lead singers Brixx and Lisa-Marie Ricketts performing their hits.

With slapstick performances from Tonya Kay, Jessie Rockley, Mz. B. Haven, Ann Narky, Shaboobie Boobarella, Johnny Bongo, Fionna Flauntit and Burgundy Brixx. There will also be a Kate Bush/stranger things costume contest with prizes and a stranger things end of tribute.

When: October 22, 2022
Time: Doors: 8:30 p.m., show 9 p.m.
Where: Rio Theater – 1660 E Broadway, Vancouver
Cost: $30 online, $35 at the door. Online purchase

The Cougar Creek House of Horrors

What: Do you like the feeling of being terrified? Then you’ll love the Cougar Creek House of Horrors.

This haunted house in Surrey is actually three different haunted items in one, plus more ways to get your blood pumping. For 2022, you can try Lovecraftian nightmare Echoes of Abbath, New Year’s Evil that locks you in a 1970s motel, and Zycko Zerkus – a carnival maze.

When: Now until October 31, 2022
Time: Various times
Where: 12530 72nd Avenue, Surrey
Cost: $29.99 to $49.99 per person

Diwali Boat Party Festival

What: Celebrate Diwali by cruising around the harbor on the two-deck Burrard Queen while listening to DJ Shalv play Bollywood’s hottest songs. Traditional attire is highly recommended and a professional photographer will be on board to take pictures of you and your loved ones during the Diwali nightlife experience.

When: October 21 and 22, 2022
Time: 8 p.m.
Differs from: 760 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver
Tickets: Varied prices, buy online

Elton John

Elton John on his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour in Melbourne, Australia (@eltonjohn/Instagram)

What: Music legend Sir Elton John is bringing his massive world tour, Farewell Yellow Brick Road The Final Tour, to Vancouver for two shows.

When: October 21 and 22, 2022
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: BC Place – 777 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver
Tickets: Varied prices, buy online

Community Living BC Community Inclusion Picnic

What: Community Living BC is hosting a picnic in Douglas Park to celebrate Community Inclusion Month, a month proclaimed by provinces and municipalities to promote full community participation for people with developmental disabilities. There will be food, games, prizes and more for all guests.

Secrets of the Haunted Bog in Guildford Town Center

What: Guildford town center invites guests to discover the secrets of the haunted bog. Dangers, spooky creatures and more await you in this spooky event for the whole family. Plus, bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the Surrey Food Bank and GTC will match the donation with $2 per item donated for a maximum cash donation of $5,000.

When: Now until October 31, 2022
Time: 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Guildford Town Center (near Center Court) – 10355 152nd Street, Surrey
Cost: Free

Plus, here’s an event happening soon in Seattle that you need to watch out for!

Cloudbreak: Seattle’s ReviveLive Music Festival

Cloudbreak (Pexals/Submitted)

What: Seattle’s live music venues have gone silent for far too long, and it’s time for fans everywhere to once again revel in the magic of live music in the Emerald City.

This November, experience Seattle’s music scene in a whole new way with #CloudbreakMusicFest. Stay at a participating downtown hotel and receive free admission to concerts throughout the city. Find out more at CloudbreakMusicFest.org.

When: November 3 to 23, 2022
Time: Various times
Where: Various locations in Seattle
Cost: Guests of downtown hotels will receive complimentary access to live music events across the city when booking a stay between November 3 and 23, 2022. Restrictions apply. Learn more online

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Submit your letter to the editor via this form. Read more Letters to the Editor.

Special blend made
state a gas island

Re. “Newsom targets drifting gasoline prices”, page A1, October 8:

Much is written about the absurdly high gas prices in California compared to the rest of the country. The discrepancy is attributed to many factors, including the big profits made by California oil companies.

Never mentioned, however, is the fact that California is a gasoline island. Because California is the only state in the union to mandate specialty gas (for cleaner air, we’re told), California is cut off from gasoline produced for the rest of the country. The law of supply and demand has been repealed; thus, we are at the mercy of California’s specialty gas refiners, and they are laughing to the bank.

One wonders if the air in the other 49 states is dirtier than ours or if we are the biggest fools in the nation. Go figure.

Kirch De Martini
Saratoga

49ers money darkens
Chavez’s intentions

Re. “49ers pay more for Cindy Chavez”, page B1, October 2:

In light of the San Francisco 49ers’ massive contribution to Cindy Chavez’s campaign for mayor of San Jose, there could be no more dangerous outcome than winning her the race. 49ers money has already corrupted the Santa Clara city government, turned council meetings into clown shows and, in many ways, pulled the city out of its pocket. For that to happen in San Jose is too big a risk to take.

The audience wonders if the contribution is payment for services already performed by Santa Clara County Supervisor Chavez or a down payment for future favors. His acceptance of the money also raises tough questions about his ethics and intentions, while questioning his respect for the office and the people of San Jose.

Guillaume Hubka
Los Gatos

Niners contribution pales
compared to black money

Re. “49ers pay more for Cindy Chavez”, page B1, October 2:

Your article about the 49ers’ contributions to Cindy Chavez’s mayoral campaign is disturbing. But that’s only a small part of the picture. His competitor, Matt Mahan actually received more direct campaign contributions ($672,914 vs. $557,679).

And that’s a small change from national and state races where midterm election spending is estimated to reach $9.3 billion, much of it ‘dark money’ where the source is legally. hidden.

Candidates know they need to appeal to Big Money contributors to be competitive, so the concept of acting for the public good is relegated to a lower priority.

The only way to solve this problem is to overthrow Citizens United. Joint House Resolution 48 proposes a constitutional amendment to achieve this and restore the principle that constitutional rights belong to the people. In the meantime, all news media should regularly publish available information on political contributions.

Brian Carr
San Jose

Warriors must deal
with disruptive green

Re. “The video of the Green-Poole altercation becomes a vial: the team tries to move on”, page C1, October 8:

It’s disturbing how determined the powers that be in the Warriors organization are to punish anyone who posted a video of Draymond Green punching Jordan Poole. They seem more concerned with protecting Green than Poole. Green is a hothead, a loudmouth who keeps getting away with crude tirades on and off the court (his podcasts), and Stephen Curry, Steve Kerr and Bob Myers keep making excuses for him. They call it the heart of the team; in reality, he is the loudmouth of the team and a liability.

We wonder if Golden State is waiting for Green to attack Kerr or another teammate. Green is a loose cannon with a big mouth and no one should want their kids to see, hear and maybe imitate his behavior on or off the pitch.

Lynda Martinez
San Jose

Get involved locally
with debate on abortion

Re. “Appeals Court Ruling Allows Abortions to Resume in Arizona,” October 7:

With the recent upset of Roe against Wade, there has been an increase in feelings among the public who believe women face betrayal and injustice when discussing abortion rights. This social justice issue is currently unfolding in many states, but with recent events in Arizona, there is hope.