Rick Scott

Official Portrait of Senator Rick Scott (R-FL)

Rick Scott is an American politician and businessman who has played a significant role in both the private and public sectors of the United States. Born Richard Lynn Scott on December 1, 1952, in Bloomington, Illinois, he grew up in a financially modest family. Scott's journey from a public housing project to the governor's mansion is a testament to the American Dream. He is a member of the Republican Party and has served as the junior United States Senator from Florida since January 8, 2019. Prior to his tenure in the Senate, Scott served as the 45th Governor of Florida from 2011 to 2019.

Early Life and Education

Rick Scott was born to Esther Scott, a clerk at J.C. Penney, and Orba Scott Jr., a truck driver. His family's financial struggles during his childhood instilled in him a strong work ethic. Scott attended North Kansas City High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Later, he earned a Juris Doctor degree from Southern Methodist University's Dedman School of Law.

Business Career

Before entering politics, Scott made a name for himself in the healthcare industry. In 1987, he co-founded Columbia Hospital Corporation, which merged with Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) in 1989 to form Columbia/HCA, one of the largest for-profit healthcare companies in the United States. Under Scott's leadership, the company expanded rapidly. However, his tenure was not without controversy. In 1997, Scott resigned as CEO amid a federal investigation into Medicare fraud. Columbia/HCA ultimately admitted to 14 felonies and agreed to a $600 million fine, the largest in U.S. history at the time.

Political Career

Governor of Florida

Rick Scott entered the political arena in 2010, running for Governor of Florida as an outsider candidate. He won a tight race against Democrat Alex Sink. As governor, Scott focused on job creation, education reform, and improving the state's economy. He was re-elected in 2014, defeating former governor Charlie Crist.

U.S. Senator

In 2018, Scott ran for the U.S. Senate, narrowly defeating incumbent Democrat Bill Nelson. As a senator, Scott has focused on issues such as healthcare reform, economic development, and national security. He has been a vocal critic of the Affordable Care Act and has advocated for increased border security.

Personal Life

Rick Scott is married to Ann Holland, and they have two daughters. Scott is also a Navy veteran, having served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Glover as a radar technician.

Controversies

Scott's career has been marked by several controversies, including the Medicare fraud scandal at Columbia/HCA. His tenure as governor was also characterized by tensions with the media and public over his policies and governance style.

Legacy

Rick Scott's legacy is a complex one, marked by his achievements in both the business world and political arena, as well as the controversies that have surrounded him. His story is emblematic of the challenges and opportunities that define the American experience.