Florida Governor Ron DeSantis criticized what he perceives as a politically motivated investigation involving the Hope Florida Foundation, an organization associated with First Lady Casey DeSantis’s Signature Welfare Assistance Program, known as Hope Florida.
During a press conference in Tampa aimed at promoting Florida’s Hope initiative, he was asked about the investigation. His initial reaction was to question its basis, reminiscing about similar inquiries he’s faced. This moment was covered by multiple outlets, including the Tampa Bay Times and the Miami Herald.
The governor expressed his belief that the scrutiny directed at the program is nothing but political maneuvering. “Everything that is thrown at it is pure politics,” he stated. “I don’t think it’s appropriate to make politics out of it,” he added, reinforcing his unwavering support for the initiative.
At the same event, Casey DeSantis vowed to persist in “doubling hopes.” She emphasized that the program is fundamentally about helping those who need advocacy, rather than being a political tool.
Meanwhile, Florida press teams requested records related to the Hope Florida Foundation following an inquiry from state legislator Alex Andredo. The public record manager for state attorney Jack Campbell indicated that the information couldn’t be disclosed due to the ongoing investigation.
The Oka also submitted a similar request and received an identical response.
Just last month, the Statehouse Health Budget Subcommittee ceased its inquiry into a $10 million donation to the charity after two key witnesses failed to appear.
There remains uncertainty about whether this donation originated from a settlement involving Centene Corp., the state’s largest Medicaid contractor. Critics argue that part of the settlement was supposed to be returned to state and federal sources but instead ended up with the Hope Florida Foundation. This funding subsequently went to a political group that opposed marijuana legalization measures last fall, which DeSantis also opposed. DeSantis and his supporters have refuted claims linking the money to the settlement.
In his view, the ongoing investigation is part of a “manufactured” smear campaign targeting him and his wife. Despite this, both DeSantis and the First Lady continue to host events to promote the program across the state.
