In a recent development, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has urged the resignation of Christian Ziegler, Chairman of the Florida Republican Party, while police investigate a rape allegation against him. Though Ziegler has not been formally charged, the timing of this investigation is significant, with the 2024 election cycle in full swing. Governor DeSantis himself is running for president, and the state GOP is actively supporting the reelection campaign of U.S. Senator Rick Scott.
Speaking to reporters, Governor DeSantis stated, “He’s innocent until proven guilty, but we just can’t have a party chair that is under that type of scrutiny. The mission is more important.”
Ziegler, who took over as party chairman in February, has been a prominent figure in Florida politics, particularly in Sarasota, where he and his wife Bridget hold significant influence. Bridget Ziegler, co-founder of Moms for Liberty, has garnered national attention for her advocacy work, which includes promoting a conservative agenda on issues such as civil and LGBTQ+ rights, as well as advocating for curricula that provide a broader perspective on marginalized communities.
The rape investigation stems from an incident reported on October 4, occurring at a private residence two days earlier. Ziegler’s attorney has expressed confidence in his client’s exoneration but has refrained from discussing the case further.
Governor DeSantis, who appointed Bridget Ziegler to a state-created board overseeing development on Disney World property, has had a history of clashes with Disney, stemming from disagreements over LGBTQ+ education in public schools. This latest development adds a layer of complexity to the already heated political landscape in Florida, with potential implications for the state’s Republican Party and the 2024 elections.