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A legislative session like no other: Key issues that didn't go in Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' favor

ABC News's profile
ABC News
3h ago

Governor Ron DeSantis, who previously enjoyed strong support from Florida's legislature, faced significant challenges during his second-to-last legislative session as his influence waned among fellow Republicans. Key initiatives like enforcing Trump's immigration agenda, removing state property taxes, and addressing the South Florida condominium crisis met resistance. Lawmakers defied DeSantis by presenting their own immigration measures and probing Hope Florida, an initiative associated with First Lady Casey DeSantis, which he accused them of attacking. Budgetary disagreements persisted, with the House and Senate unable to agree on a budget plan, prompting DeSantis to criticize the House's productivity. Despite efforts to address condominium cost hikes, DeSantis opposed the House's version, fearing it favored developers and could displace residents, urging for reforms that maintain affordability for condo owners.

A legislative session like no other: Key issues that didn't go in Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' favor

Governor Ron DeSantis, once firmly supported by Florida's legislative body, faced a challenging session as fellow Republicans openly defied his directives, marking a significant shift in his political influence within the state.

A special session intended to advance Trump's immigration agenda saw Republican lawmakers dismissing DeSantis' proposals in favor of their own, effectively overriding his attempts to align state policy with Trump's federal directives.

Hope Florida, an initiative led by First Lady Casey DeSantis, came under scrutiny by a House subcommittee over potential misuse of Medicaid funds, with the governor defending the initiative against what he perceived as legislative attacks on his wife.

Budgetary negotiations stalled as the House and Senate proposed differing plans, with DeSantis criticizing the House's approach and advocating for property tax reductions while opposing their proposed sales tax cut.

Efforts to address the condominium crisis in South Florida led to legislative proposals enabling financial flexibility for condo associations, but DeSantis opposed the House version, fearing it would benefit developers at the expense of residents.

DeSantis' proposed $115.6 billion budget, including significant allocations for immigration enforcement and Everglades restoration, was not agreed upon by lawmakers, showcasing the growing division within Florida's Republican Party.

The governor's rhetoric intensified as he labeled the legislature the 'House of Pettiness,' highlighting his frustration with their resistance and the challenges he faces in maintaining his political foothold amid aspirations for future presidential ambitions.

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