“If you’re going to attack proposals that reduce hospital costs and expand prenatal care access,” he said, “at least do the bare minimum: read the legislation.”
A few gasps whispered through the chamber, subtle but sharp. The moment was no longer just about policy—it was about credibility.
Dalton attempted a comeback, his voice thinner than usual. “Maybe you should explain it better,” he offered, weakly.
Rubio smiled faintly, the kind of smile that precedes a knockout. “I didn’t know we needed PowerPoint to explain protecting mothers and babies.”
Laughter from the gallery was quickly hushed by the clerk, but the message had landed. Rubio wasn’t just winning a debate—he was reclaiming the moral high ground.
“This is why people lose trust in us,” Rubio went on, eyes locked on Dalton. “Because too many confuse noise for knowledge and ego for ethics.”
