The last Democratic governor of Florida — more than three decades ago — signed a law in Florida that would initiate the largest environmental restoration effort in American history. In the 30 years since, it’s the Republicans in Florida who have delivered on that promise, and the results are astounding. The incredible impact of the Everglades Forever Act of 1994 shatters one of the biggest myths in American politics: that conservatives can’t lead on conservation.

My family immigrated legally to the United States from Peru when I was nine years old. As an immigrant who made America — and Florida — my home, I believe that stewardship of this country’s resources and natural beauty isn’t a “progressive” value, but an expression of patriotism. Conservatives believe in protecting what we inherit and making it better for the next generation. America’s natural treasures should be no exception.