The “Make America Clean Again” initiative recently united veterans, community leaders, and
volunteers in a critical cleanup effort in Broward County, Florida. Among those leading this initiative
was John Rourke, who, with the invitation of Robert W. Sutton, helped spearhead efforts to clean the
Broward Canal. Dr. Raj Kunar was also present, offering his support in this vital environmental
action. Additionally, Rhode Malivert and her dedicated team from K12 Preparatory Academy
actively participated in the cleanup, reinforcing the importance of youth involvement in environmental
conservation.
While our President is working to clean up Washington, it’s our duty as citizens to clean up our communities. That’s why congressional candidate Rod Joseph joined forces with community members to address Broward County’s environmental challenges. This grassroots effort highlights a stark reality: local officials must do more to address pollution, waste management, and the broader environmental concerns that affect residents’ quality of life.
The Environmental Crisis in Broward County
Broward County—particularly District 20—has long struggled with environmental issues, from excessive litter in waterways to the broader impacts of climate change. Despite having environmental departments and hotlines for complaints, persistent problems such as trash accumulation and pollution suggest that official measures are either inadequate or not effectively enforced.
The recent cleanup in Pompano Beach demonstrated that citizens are stepping up where local leadership is falling short. Community-led initiatives like these should not be the sole solution; they should complement governmental efforts, not replace them. If the county’s ambitious climate goals—such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80% below 2007 levels by 2050—are to be met, officials must take real, measurable action beyond policy papers and mission statements.
Who Should Join This Fight?
The “Make America Clean Again” movement is a wake-up call for Broward County officials, businesses, and community organizations. To make a lasting impact, local environmental advocacy groups should partner with community leaders and minority groups to expand cleanup efforts and promote sustainable practices.
Why It Matters to District 20 Voters
Cleaner cities mean cleaner air, safer water, and healthier communities. Engaging in this initiative not only improves environmental conditions but also enhances public health and quality of life. If local officials fail to act, we must continue to hold them accountable and push for policies that ensure real, sustainable change.
The “Make America Clean Again” movement aims to inspire more local clean-up campaigns, sustainable urban planning, and pollution reduction strategies. We invite you—our community members and voters—to get involved. Your participation is essential in driving change, from holding leadership accountable to actively taking part in making our communities greener.
