Amidst a Republican civil war in Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis has publicly criticized the state House leadership for allegedly betraying the voters by pursuing a 'swamp-centric agenda' and undermining the conservative path. Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez has countered by accusing DeSantis of becoming the swamp himself, citing financial mismanagement and a focus on compliance over conservatism. Perez defended the House's conservative actions, noting they have passed budgets and tax cuts larger than those proposed by DeSantis, while criticizing the governor's leadership style as one based on fear and intimidation. DeSantis is also pushing for a constitutional amendment to reform or abolish property taxes, arguing that they are an oppressive form of taxation, but faces skepticism from the legislature. With DeSantis not eligible to run for governor again and Trump endorsing Rep. Byron Donalds, the political landscape in Florida remains tense and uncertain as the next gubernatorial race approaches.

Governor Ron DeSantis has accused Florida House leadership of betraying voters by following a 'swamp-centric agenda' that deviates from the conservative path, potentially turning Florida back into a swing state.

Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez responded by accusing DeSantis of being the swamp, pointing to financial mismanagement under his administration and criticizing his leadership style as based on fear and intimidation.

Perez highlighted the House's conservative achievements, such as passing budgets and tax cuts larger than those proposed by DeSantis and implementing bold policies like repealing gun laws and passing E-Verify.

DeSantis's proposal to reform or abolish property taxes has been met with skepticism, as property taxes are controlled locally, and he has yet to provide a concrete plan for the amendment he advocates.

DeSantis argues that property taxes are an oppressive form of taxation that essentially makes property owners pay rent to the government, as they tax unrealized gains based on increased property value assessments.

Although DeSantis is not eligible to run for governor again in 2026, he plans to remain involved in the political landscape as Trump has endorsed Rep. Byron Donalds for the gubernatorial contest.

The political tension in Florida continues to escalate as DeSantis and Perez clash over the direction of the state's Republican leadership and the future of property tax reform.