DeSantis Responds to Hope Florida Controversy, Accuses 'Lawfare' of Targeting Trump and Republican Nominees
Florida Governor DeSantis dismisses Hope Florida Foundation controversy as politically motivated "lawfare," claiming backlash is driven by partisanship.
The office of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is pushing back strongly against recent allegations that the governor and his wife, Casey DeSantis, were connected to the distribution of $10 million in settlement funds to the Hope Florida Foundation, following the state’s agreement with healthcare provider Centene. The controversy has emerged as a focal point in the state’s political climate, with DeSantis officials characterizing the accusations as part of ongoing “politically motivated lawfare.”
“It’s ridiculous and especially shameful coming from Republicans who hate to see others delivering results,” stated Communications Director Bryan Griffin, highlighting the administration’s stance that the claims are unfounded and politically charged. The funds in question originated from a September 2024 settlement, when Centene returned $67 million to the state over Medicaid overbilling claims. Of that sum, $10 million was directed to the Hope Florida Foundation, which then awarded two separate $5 million grants to Save Our Society from Drugs and Secure Florida’s Future, Inc. Subsequently, $8.5 million of those funds were funneled to Keep Florida Clean, a political action committee known for opposing the legalization of recreational marijuana in Florida—a cause that Casey DeSantis has publicly opposed.
A senior official from the governor’s office emphasized the distinction between the foundation and the broader Hope Florida initiative led by Casey DeSantis, underscoring that the two entities operate independently. In addition, the official asserted that, contrary to some reports, there is no formal investigation underway by the Leon County State Attorney’s office into the matter, despite previous statements suggesting an “open, ongoing investigation.” This clarification followed the correction of a New York Times headline that erroneously claimed Casey DeSantis was under investigation.
Florida state Representative Alex Andrade, who first brought the transaction to light, noted uncertainty regarding any ongoing investigation but acknowledged discussions with the Department of Justice about related documentation. He clarified that, based on his understanding, neither Ron nor Casey DeSantis appeared to be involved in the grant-making process. Andrade did, however, suggest that DeSantis’s chief of staff at the time played a role in brokering the movement of funds and criticized the Hope Florida initiative for an alleged lack of transparency about its impact and the activities of state employees connected to it.
Governor DeSantis directly addressed the situation at a press conference, attributing the uproar to “one state representative with a political agenda” targeting both the Hope Florida initiative and people associated with his administration. He defended his wife’s work, highlighting achievements such as taxpayer savings and welfare reductions, calling for recognition of these results.
The unfolding controversy arrives at a pivotal moment in Florida politics, as speculation swirls around future gubernatorial contenders. With Governor DeSantis approaching the end of his term, Casey DeSantis is widely rumored to be exploring a gubernatorial run. Meanwhile, Republican Representative Byron Donalds has declared his candidacy and secured an early endorsement from former President Donald Trump, further intensifying the spotlight on the issue as the state’s political landscape begins to take shape ahead of the next election cycle.
