In a shocking turn of events, Moms for Liberty (M4L), a group designated as anti-LGBTQ+ by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), finds itself unraveling following rape allegations against the husband of its co-founder, Bridget Ziegler. The accusations have thrust the organization into disarray, shedding light on their controversial agenda and testing their commitment to so-called “family values.”
The saga began when Christian Ziegler, also the Florida Republican Party Chairman, faced a police investigation after a woman accused him of sexual assault. While Ziegler denies the allegations, an affidavit revealed that Bridget Ziegler had confirmed to the police that over a year prior, they had engaged in consensual sexual activity with the alleged victim. Disturbing Instagram messages from the victim further suggested her fear of Ziegler after the alleged incident.
The situation has had repercussions beyond M4L, affecting Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who has ties to both Zieglers through their involvement in Republican politics. DeSantis promptly requested Christian Ziegler’s resignation as GOP Chairman once the allegations became public.
M4L, known for its opposition to progressive education policies and LGBTQ+-friendly curriculums, has been actively involved in influencing school boards and spreading misinformation about supposed “indoctrination” in schools. However, the rape allegations have led to a growing disconnect between the organization’s professed values and the controversy surrounding its co-founder’s family.
One local chapter, based in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, severed ties with M4L in response to the scandal. Clarissa Paige, who led the chapter, expressed her concern not only about the allegations but also about the rapid defense mounted by national leaders in support of the Zieglers. She emphasized the inconsistency in fighting against student “grooming” while defending individuals facing such allegations.
The chapter is now rebranding as the Northumberland County Education Alliance, continuing its advocacy for what they term “parental rights” in local schools. Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried highlighted the Zieglers’ hypocrisy in attacking anything they perceive as contrary to their notion of “family values,” from reproductive rights to LGBTQ+ existence.
In response to the allegations, M4L co-founders Tiffany Justice and Tina Descovich issued a statement expressing their shock and emphasizing the importance of taking sexual assault allegations seriously and investigating them thoroughly. They also noted that Christian Ziegler had left M4L a month after its launch in January 2021 and respected the decision of the Northumberland County chapter to distance itself from the group. The scandal continues to test the integrity and future of Moms for Liberty, as it grapples with the allegations against one of its founders.
This disturbing situation has ignited debate not only within M4L but also within the broader political landscape, highlighting the challenges faced by organizations that profess to champion “family values” in the face of such allegations.