In a shocking turn of events, Christian Ziegler, the state GOP chair in Florida, finds himself at the center of a criminal investigation for alleged sexual assault. The accusations have sent shockwaves through the political landscape, particularly as Ziegler’s wife, Bridget Ziegler, is one of the co-founders of the anti-LGBTQ+ extremist group known as Moms for Liberty. The accuser in this case claims to have had sexual encounters with both Christian and Bridget Ziegler, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
The complaint was filed on October 4, detailing a sexual assault that allegedly occurred on October 2. However, the report obtained by the Florida Trident remains largely redacted, leaving much of the case shrouded in secrecy. Notably, Bridget Ziegler was not present during the alleged sexual assault, as per sources close to the investigation.
Secret Recordings and Ongoing Investigation
Investigation sources have disclosed that the woman involved had maintained a sexual relationship with both Zieglers over the past three years. More astonishingly, investigators reportedly found evidence on Christian Ziegler’s phone, indicating that he had secretly recorded videos of three-way sexual encounters with the woman and his wife. As of now, no charges have been filed, and both Zieglers have refrained from commenting on the ongoing investigation.
Christian Ziegler’s attorney released a statement asserting his client’s innocence and emphasized the need for caution before rushing to judgment. The statement read, “Unfortunately, public figures are often accused of acts that they did not commit, whether for political purposes or financial gain. Out of respect for the investigation, this is all Mr. Ziegler or myself can say at this time.”
Political Ties and Accusations of Hypocrisy
Christian Ziegler, a longstanding figure in the Florida Republican party, has garnered significant attention for his involvement. His wife, Bridget Ziegler, who found political success with the support of Governor Ron DeSantis, is known for her affiliation with Moms for Liberty. Governor DeSantis endorsed her during her school board campaign and appointed her to the board overseeing Disney World’s special district, a move seen as a response to Disney’s opposition to Florida’s controversial “Don’t Say Gay” law.
The accusations have drawn criticism from various quarters. Harvard Law Cyberlaw Clinic instructor Alejandra Caraballo highlighted the “level of hypocrisy” in light of the allegations, particularly considering Moms for Liberty’s role in advocating for the “Don’t Say Gay” law in Florida.
Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried praised the accuser’s bravery for coming forward and called for Christian Ziegler’s immediate resignation, given the seriousness of the allegations. Fried also pointed out the stark “hypocrisy” in Bridget Ziegler’s anti-LGBTQ+ activism in the face of these accusations, drawing attention to the contradictions within the Florida GOP and Moms for Liberty’s stances on LGBTQ+ issues.
This ongoing investigation continues to make headlines as it unveils the intricate connections between politics and personal lives, shedding light on the complex intersection of power, influence, and allegations of sexual assault in the state of Florida.