Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried is taking her pro-vaccine message to conservatives, running a PSA on Fox News that urges viewers to “turn off the TV and get vaccinated.”
The 30-second spot, which is set to air across the state tomorrow, features the Democratic gubernatorial candidate advocating for vaccines while taking a not-so-subtle jab at Governor Ron DeSantis and his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, Fried seems to paint DeSantis as an ‘anti-vaxxer’ while touting Fox News anchors Sean Hannity and Steve Doocy for encouraging views to get COVID-19 shots as the Delta variant spreads.
“You won’t hear this on Fox News from Governor DeSantis, but you need to,” Fried says in the ad. “Sean Hannity and Steve Doocy and your family doctor all agree. Vaccines will save your life, your job and the economy.”
Fried, who has defended vaccines while lambasting DeSantis for promoting ‘anti-science’ and attacking the usage of masks, also invoked former President Donald Trump, who remains at odds with allies for taking credit for the development and rollout of the coronavirus vaccines.
“Even Donald Trump recommends getting vaccinated,” Fried quips.
The lone statewide Democrat then attempts to drum up support from the network’s pro-military base — likening the fight against COVID to World War II — while also calling on ‘patriots’ to turn off the news and get vaccinated.
“Think about it. The greatest generation had to beat the Nazis to preserve our way of life,” Fried continues. “You’re only asked to get a shot! So be a patriot, turn off the TV, and go get vaccinated.”
Fried, who promised to “break the rigged system in Florida” when she announced her bid for governor in June, continues to be an outspoken critic of DeSantis and the state’s handling of the virus. Earlier this week, Fried directed the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) to publish federal COVID-19 data. She also announced that she will be holding regular COVID-19 briefings to provide the public with updates on public safety guidance, case counts, and vaccination rates in the state. Fried says her call to action comes as Florida leads the nation in new COVID-19 infections.
We are running this vaccine PSA on Fox News statewide tomorrow.
RT to help us end the pandemic of unvaccinated in Florida & the nation. pic.twitter.com/DuPCOZsK04
— Nikki Fried (@NikkiFried) July 29, 2021