FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FEBRUARY 20, 2026
CONTACT: press@madisoncawtdev.wpenginepowered.com
CAPE CORAL, FL: Former Congressman and candidate for Florida’s 19th Congressional District, Madison Cawthorn, unveiled a bold plan to combat the skyrocketing cost of flood insurance that is currently threatening the American Dream of homeownership in Southwest Florida.
As FEMA’s “Risk Rating 2.0” continues to drive premiums to record highs, Cawthorn is calling for immediate federal and state tax rebates to provide relief to families being priced out of their homes.
“The dream of owning a home in South Florida is being stolen by flood insurance bills we can’t afford to pay,” said Madison Cawthorn. “FEMA’s new pricing scheme isn’t just a rate hike; it’s a silent eviction notice for thousands of Florida families. When your insurance costs more than your mortgage, the government isn’t just raising rates, they’re taking your home.”
Cawthorn’s proposal focuses on a rebate system designed to put money directly back into the pockets of residents forced to pay predatory premiums. Under the plan, homeowners would be eligible for a significant tax rebate to offset the “Risk Rating 2.0” surge, ensuring that flood protection remains affordable for the middle class.
“If the government is going to force these impossible premiums on us, they should pay us back,” Cawthorn continued. “We need to make flood insurance in South Florida affordable again. I am running to represent FL-19 because I will fight to save the dream of homeownership for every family in this district.”
The announcement follows recent data showing that Cape Coral and Naples residents are paying some of the highest flood insurance rates in the nation, often exceeding $1,500 annually for standard coverage, while high-risk coastal properties face even more staggering costs.
About Madison Cawthorn
Madison Cawthorn is a resident of Cape Coral and a former U.S. Representative. He is seeking to succeed Congressman Byron Donalds in Florida’s 19th District to champion America First policies and protect the Florida way of life.
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