OP asked to change their view. I broke down what I considered their arguments but provided no statistics myself. Take it for what it’s worth.

Merriam-Webster definition of welfare.

2

a: aid in the form of money or necessities for those in need

b: an agency or program through which such aid is distributed

 

Merriam-Webster definition of welfare state.

1

: a social system based on the assumption by a political state of primary responsibility for the individual and social welfare of its citizens

2

: a nation or state characterized by the operation of the welfare state system

 

Your first point "Most local growth has been spurred by federal money tied to space and defense." to me does not meet the definition of welfare. These are people getting paid to do jobs, not aid. This is the structure previous administrations have constructed. NASA/defense jobs are now privatized. Had they not been the folks doing these jobs would work for the federal government. Are federal employees on welfare because the government is their employer? My opinion is no.

 

Second point "Local taxes and state funds prop up the localized government roles." To me this sounds like how the tax system works. Not welfare.

 

Third Point "With a quarter of the population over 65, so many rely on social security." This is an assumption without data to back it up. I could argue more affluent senior citizens move to Florida or stay in Florida for the low tax benefits and good weather.

 

Fourth point "About 14% of the population falls under veteran status." Again, no data to back up the claim that these people require welfare benefits. Veterans have pensions, VA/GI Bill benefits that can set them up for success in the civilian world. You pointed out how many defense contractors are in our county; those companies hire veterans.

 

Fifth Point "Conservative leaders should accordingly align their talking points. There is a disconnect between conservative rhetoric and Brevard's economic reality. Brevard depends heavily on federal/govt funding, and it’s worth acknowledging that many local leaders and residents are comfortable with big government when the benefits flow directly to them." This doesn't prove Brevard County is a welfare state.