The Hope Florida Foundation, associated with Casey DeSantis, received an unexpected $10 million from a Medicaid contractor, Centene, involved in an overbilling settlement. Instead of aiding struggling families, the foundation funneled the funds to two nonprofit political committees that supported Governor Ron DeSantis's efforts to defeat a marijuana legalization ballot measure. This financial maneuver has sparked a scandal, with allegations of potential money laundering and wire fraud being investigated by state lawmakers. The DeSantis administration denies any wrongdoing, claiming the funds were not from Medicaid, while criticism grows over the lack of transparency and the use of funds for political purposes. The controversy continues as questions remain unresolved, particularly if Casey DeSantis considers running for governor, raising concerns about the integrity of the Hope Florida initiative and its financial practices.

The Hope Florida Foundation, led by Casey DeSantis, received a $10 million donation from Centene, a Medicaid contractor involved in a settlement over $67 million in overbilling, which was unprecedented compared to its previous fundraising efforts.

This donation was quickly redirected to two nonprofit political committees, Secure Florida’s Future and Save Our Society From Drugs, which are classified as 'dark money' groups due to their limited financial disclosure requirements, raising concerns about transparency.

The funds were used to support Governor Ron DeSantis's political goals, particularly opposing Amendment 3, a ballot measure to legalize marijuana, with significant sums being channeled through political action committees linked to DeSantis.

Republican lawmakers, including State Representative Alex Andrade, have raised alarms about the legality of these transactions, suggesting possible money laundering and wire fraud, although the DeSantis administration disputes these claims.

The scandal has led to resignations within the Hope Florida Foundation and increased scrutiny of its practices, with calls for more transparency amid accusations that the foundation exceeded its allowable spending on political activities, risking its tax-exempt status.