John Rutherford

First Coast Crime Stoppers is a Jacksonville-based nonprofit that works with local law enforcement by allowing residents to anonymously report information about crimes and providing cash rewards when tips lead to arrests. In 2025, the organization received nearly 3,000 tips that resulted in 188 arrests and 484 cases cleared. The key to the success of First Coast Crime Stoppers is protecting and maintaining the anonymity of tipsters. Thank you for helping keep our communities safe. Keep up the great work!

Today marks 33 years since two U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopters were shot down over Mogadishu, Somalia, killing 18 Americans and wounding 73. We honor and remember the service members who sacrificed their lives that day and the days thereafter. https://t.co/RmQQ0QEbVG

It was great to meet with members of the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) to discuss ways we can support the veterinary workforce, pet owners, and the health and well-being of Americans. Right now, the demand for rural veterinarians, especially for those who treat large animals and livestock, is very high, with many regions in America vastly underserved. That’s why I am proud to cosponsor H.R. 2398, the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act, to address the shortage of food animal and public health veterinarians in rural and underserved communities.

In 1672, Florida Governor Manuel de Cendoya thrust a shovel into the ground to begin the fortification of St. Augustine. Since then, the fort has served as a monument to the First Coast's robust history and resiliency. The 20-acre site stands proud as the oldest and largest masonry fortress within the continental United States. Happy 354th birthday to Castillo de San Marcos!

“As Co-Chair of the South Atlantic Red Snapper Task Force, I am pleased to see President Trump sign an EO to strengthen management of our fisheries, advance science-based conservation, support artificial reef development, and expand recreational access to our fisheries,” saidRutherford. “It’s critical we improve data collection to better manage our fisheries and extend recreational fishing seasons for the anglers and coastal businesses that rely on these seasons.” Rutherfordcontinued, “This EO directs federal agencies to improve recreational fisheries data, strengthen state-federal partnerships, expand access for recreational anglers, and modernize the way America’s fisheries are managed. I have long encouraged the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to address the real concerns surrounding accuracy of federal recreational fishing estimates, particularly in the South Atlantic red snapper fishery. Every year, I hear from anglers that the red snapper are so abundant it is all they can catch. Yet, each year, they only receive a couple day long federal season. Our anglers and coastal businesses should not have to pay the price for uncertainty in our broken federal data collection system. President Trump’s EO directly addresses these concerns by directing NOAA to establish a threshold for unreliable federal estimates and consider replacing them with more precise state-collected data.” “The Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act, which I introduced in the House, to better meet regional and state fishing needs, empowers state management of recreational fisheries data programs, increase data transparency, and expand fishery-independent science. This legislation closely aligns with changes made in this EO. The EO directs federal agencies to modernize electronic reporting, explore new technologies for fisheries science, and streamline regulation and permitting. States, like Florida, have demonstrated that they can collect high-quality fisheries data. With the help of President Trump, we are one step closer to Making Fishing Great Again.”

Wind, storm surge, and flooding can be just as deadly as the hurricane itself. As peak hurricane season continues, please heed caution, monitor all weather alerts, and be prepared. Listen to 89.9 WJCT-FM and go to my website for more hurricane preparedness information: https://t.co/KG3v1PWpNP.🌀

We owe so much to the men and women who have served our great nation. This National Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Day, may we remember and honor those who sacrificed so much to keep the air we breathe free. https://t.co/gK7xxwybmW

The knock on a door that initiates military families into the Gold Star community is one that changes their lives forever. Today, we honor our nation's Gold Star mothers and recognize their selfless contribution to preserving the liberties we hold dear. https://t.co/YM6h3J5nTR

The long-awaited South Atlantic red snapper season is finally here. From October 9th to October 22nd, I encourage everyone to take advantage of Florida's beautiful waters and go fishing! While it is fewer days than we hoped for, this season is a great opportunity for us to learn more about the red snapper fishery, collect high-quality data, and lay the groundwork for a longer and more predictable recreational season in 2027 and the years to come. Read my full statement here: https://t.co/ohgq4mTF8r

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) released the following statement on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries’ announcement of the 2026 recreational red snapper fishing season in the South Atlantic in which the agency issued new Exempted Fishing Permits (EFPs) requested by Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. Florida’s red snapper recreational fishing season in the South Atlantic will open for fourteen days this year from October 9th through October 22nd. “Finally, the long-awaited South Atlantic red snapper season is here, and I encourage everyone to take advantage of Florida’s beautiful waters and go fishing,” saidRutherford. “While it is fewer days than we hoped for, this season is a great opportunity for us to learn more about the red snapper fishery, collect high-quality data, and lay the groundwork for a longer and more predictable recreational season in 2027 and the years to come. “As a co-chair of the South Atlantic Red Snapper Task Force, I remain committed to advocating for proven methods of collecting reliable data, expanding sustainable harvests, and supporting our coastal economies that depend on this fishery. I look forward to continuing to work with President Trump, Secretary Lutnick, Governor DeSantis, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) to fight for recreational anglers in our community and across the Great State of Florida. Together, we can Make Fishing Great Again."

Wishing our Jewish community in Northeast Florida and across the nation a meaningful Yom Kippur and an easy fast. Yom Tov! https://t.co/3yilvgBmzM

Happy 79th birthday to the @USairforce! Thank you to the brave airmen and women who bravely defend our country each and every day. Aim High… Fly-Fight-Win! 🇺🇸 https://t.co/P884AlHNW9

The POW/MIA flag flies across our nation to remember the more than 81,000 Americans who went missing in action or were imprisoned for their loyalty to our nation in the midst of conflict. This National POW/MIA Recognition Day, may we never forget their sacrifices. https://t.co/COOXICokUE

Today, we celebrate the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution by thirty-nine brave Americans on September 17, 1787. Happy Constitution Day! 🇺🇸 https://t.co/Dh0Httv8fL

On this solemn day, we remember the 9/11 terror attacks that shook our nation 25 years ago. May we never forget the Americans who lost their lives that day and the many days that followed. God Bless our brave servicemembers and allies who joined together in the aftermath of this great tragedy to fight terrorism around the world. As a nation, may we continue to find peace and strive each day to be worthy of their sacrifice. 🇺🇸

I wish you each a happy and healthy Labor Day Weekend surrounded by your family and friends.

The U.S. Supreme Court plays an integral role in our federal government. To preserve the delicate balance of power between the three branches, it is important that the Supreme Court bench continues to seat only nine justices. I was proud to vote YES on H.J. Res. 1 to propose a constitutional amendment to protect the sanctity of the Supreme Court. I was disappointed to see my Democratic colleagues vote to block this important constitutional amendment and instead, continue to advocate for packing the court for political gain.

Today marks the 81st anniversary of the Allied victory over Japan in World War II. This Victory over Japan Day, we honor our brave American heroes who fought to preserve our freedom. May the sacrifices of the Greatest Generation never be forgotten. https://t.co/6omrRHvJUL

K9 Resorts is a luxury pet hotel and doggy daycare facility that just opened up in Jacksonville. They aim to provide a clean, social, and fun environment for pets to stay. It’s great to see K9 Resorts open their doors, provide jobs, and contribute to our economic growth here in Northeast Florida!

I was honored to visit River City Science Academy Intracoastal classrooms to talk about how laws are made. One of my favorite parts of being a representative is helping young Americans get excited about our country and democracy. Civic engagement is important, and it’s great to see kids excited to participate and advocate for issues they care about most.

Today is International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to Victims of Terrorism. Today and every day, may we keep the victims and survivors of terrorism in our hearts and prayers, and work together to stop extremism worldwide. https://t.co/3zbrBoh92N

Happy National Aviation Day. Since @JAXairport opened its doors in 1968, they've connected people and places across the country and world through the power of aviation. It's great to see Northeast Florida continue to soar through the skies! https://t.co/yGFKLISY8y

Today, on Purple Heart Day, we recognize the brave servicemen and women wounded or killed serving our country. May their sacrifices never be forgotten. 🇺🇸 https://t.co/K5KitrXGHl

I am saddened by the passing of former Texas Congresswoman and Chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, Kay Granger. As a teacher, businesswoman, city council member, mayor, and U.S. representative, Kay dedicated her life to serving her community and country. My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones as they mourn the loss of a great American and devoted civil servant.

On this day in 1950, the first ever rocket launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida. What a great day in Florida's history, here's to many more! https://t.co/SvFKxZD51V