A press conference led by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Tuesday, May 6, took a dramatic turn when State Senator Ileana Garcia suddenly fainted while delivering a speech.
Garcia, a Republican representing District 36, was addressing the audience on environmental legislation when she began to lose her balance. In footage aired by The Florida Channel, she turned toward Governor DeSantis and mentioned feeling unwell before closing her eyes and collapsing.
Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, who was nearby, quickly intervened, catching her and helping her into a chair. Concerned attendees rushed over with water and offered assistance.
The reason for Garcia’s sudden fainting episode has not yet been confirmed.
Despite the scare, she recovered quickly and returned to the podium within a minute. “Are you kidding? This was my moment,” she quipped, before confidently finishing her speech.
Governor DeSantis, seen smiling at the end of the footage, seemed impressed by her composure.
Garcia’s determination to carry on after the incident earned her praise from many who admired her resilience.
