A Tampa Democratic congresswoman and consumer advocates are rallying opposition to Florida Power and Light's nearly $10 billion rate increase . If approved by the Florida Public Service Commission, it would be the largest utility rate hike in U.S. history.

“ We simply can no longer stand idly by and allow these powerful energy companies to profit off of hard-working Americans — not here in Florida and not anywhere else,” U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, a Democrat, told reporters during a video-conference call on Tuesday.

This week's press briefing was organized ahead of Monday's first hearing by the Florida Public Service Commission to consider FPL's proposal.

“ This is an extreme example of prioritizing profit over people,” said Mackenzie Marcelin, an activist with non-profit group Flo

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