Byron Donalds, a Florida Representative, recently responded to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s (AOC) jab about his lack of experience in the political arena. During a discussion on Twitter, AOC suggested that Donalds not speak about things he has not been through; adding that lawmaker has not “gone through a quarter of the experience [she has] gone through”.
Donalds quickly replied with this statement: “In the six years since I was first elected to public office, I have been a liaison between heads of state, advocated for numerous local causes, authored and passed legislation, and worked confronting the challenges of this nation. I know what I’m talking about.”
Donalds’ response was well-received by many and has led to positive discussions about the value of experience. Despite the pissing-contest style of this exchange, Donalds was able to assert his knowledge and prove that experience is not necessarily related to time served, but, rather, to the quality of accomplishments and the challenges tackled.
Donalds’ political career includes nearly two decades of public service, starting with his support of presidential candidate Mitt Romney in 2008 and culminating with his election to Congress in 2020. During his professional career, Donalds has represented leaders and advocated for causes at local, state, and federal levels.
Donalds has previously worked as de facto liaison between heads of state, authored over a dozen bills, and proudly served as director of the Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources in Collier County. He also holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the US Air Force Reserves, and currently serves on the House Armed Services Committee where he provides his insight on military issues.
Donalds pushed back at AOC which has ultimately opened the conversation to agree on the following points: while a longer tenure can offer more knowledge, being a “veteran” does not always guarantee experience or expertise; and hard work and dedication are the best ways of building a successful career.
The exchange between AOC and Donalds serves as a good reminder that experience counts, but the quality of experience is always more important than the length of service.
