Sen. Rick Scott Dives into True Meaning of the American Dream with FL Restaurant Owner in ‘American Dream at Work’ Series

Sen. Rick Scott Dives into True Meaning of the American Dream with FL Restaurant Owner in ‘American Dream at Work’ Series
February 11, 2026
WASHINGTON, D.C.
– Today, Senator Rick Scott released the
second episode
of his ‘
American Dream at Work
’ series highlighting Fernando Mendoza, the owner and founder of Nando Grill with several locations throughout the state. Senator Scott hears directly from Fernando on what the American Dream, and the opportunities that come with it, mean to him. See episode one with entrepreneur Jon Taffer
HERE
.
As part of his
American Dream at Work
series, Senator Scott is highlighting the stories of Florida entrepreneurs, their businesses, and the incredible work they’re doing to grow jobs and contribute to their communities. Senator Scott lived his American Dream – from growing up in public housing, to starting a family, building businesses, being elected Governor of Florida, and U.S. Senator – he continues working tirelessly to ensure every American has the same opportunity to live their American Dream.
Senator Rick Scott
said, “The American Dream has always been about opportunity -- about people from all walks of life coming to this country, working hard, and building something better for themselves and their families. Small businesses are the backbone of that dream, creating jobs, strengthening communities, and proving what’s possible when hard work meets opportunity. During my visit to Nando Grill in Orlando, I met with Fernando, a Venezuelan immigrant who came to America with a dream and is now living it as a successful small business owner. His story represents the very best of our country. But today, even the hardest-working entrepreneurs are facing higher costs and burdensome regulations that make it harder to get ahead. That’s why policies like President Trump’s
One Big Beautiful Bill
, including
No Tax on Tips
, matter, because they help workers keep more of what they earn and give small businesses room to grow. Since I got to the Senate in 2019, I promised to fight to Make Washington Work, by shrinking government, cutting spending, cutting taxes, and supporting small businesses so business owners like Fernando can continue creating jobs, helping families succeed, and showing that the American Dream is still alive and worth fighting for.”
Watch the second episode, featuring
Fernando Mendoza of Nando Grill
HERE
or below.
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https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2026/2/sen-rick-scott-dives-into-true-meaning-of-the-american-dream-with-fl-restaurant-owner-in-american-dream-at-work-series