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Rep. Greg Steube Honors Good Samaritan as State of the Union Guest

Government and Politics

February 6, 2023


SARASOTA — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) is honored to have Suncoast resident, Mr. Darrell Woodie, as his distinguished guest at this year's State of the Union address. Mr. Woodie called 911 after witnessing Rep. Steube’s accident in January.

“As a Member of Congress, it’s my privilege to designate an official guest for the State of the Union. I’m honored that this year, Mr. Darrell Woodie has graciously accepted my invitation and will be representing Florida’s Suncoast," said Rep. Greg Steube. "Woodie is an upstanding citizen of our community and the epitome of a Good Samaritan – I know he was guided by the Holy Spirit the day he witnessed my accident and sprang into action. Not only did he call 911 and give the operator everything they needed to ensure help was sent efficiently, but he stayed with me until help arrived. Furthermore, in the weeks since my accident, Woodie has become a great friend to our family, and we will always be grateful to him."

“It is an honor to receive an invitation to attend the State of the Union address in Washington D.C. as the guest of Congressman Steube,” said Woodie. "I am wishing Rep. Steube a speedy recovery from his injuries and glad to count him as a friend."

Darrell Woodie is a Suncoast resident and graduate of Manatee High School in Bradenton, Florida. He is an employee of Amazon through Pinnacle Express Delivery, owned by Robin and Doug Frank, and also serves as a part-time field representative for Rep. Vern Buchanan. He is active in the community and can often be seen participating in local worthy causes with Dr. Gary Kompothecras of 1800-Ask-Gary, such as providing backpacks for families in need during Back-to-School, and giving out turkeys and toys for families who need extra help during the Christmas season.

Background: 

Congressman Steube was involved in an accident at his Sarasota property on January 18, 2023 and sustained several injuries. The Congressman was knocked approximately 25 feet down off a ladder while cutting tree limbs and spent three nights in Sarasota Memorial Hospital, including time in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Congressman Steube is now home in Sarasota where he continues to recover from a fractured pelvis, a punctured lung, and several torn ligaments in his neck. Although Rep. Steube is unable to travel to D.C. for the State of the Union address, Woodie has accepted the invitation to attend this prestigious event as Rep. Steube's guest.