‘A sophisticated scheme,’ exposed

In this episode: A scathing grand jury report — one that some of the most powerful politicians in Florida tried to keep hidden from voters — says that the administration of Gov. Ron DeSantis “misappropriated” $10 million in taxpayer money “as part of a sophisticated scheme to fund political activities.” The grand jury broadly laid blame for the Hope Florida scandal with James Uthmeier, the former DeSantis chief of staff who since been appointed attorney general of Florida. It also exposed the hidden role in the affair played by U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody. The grand jury ultimately declined to issue any criminal indictments in part because “nobody will take responsibility” for key decisions. But Uthmeier and Moody are both on the ballot this fall — which means the final verdict now lies with Florida voters. Show notes Before you do anything else, read Jim DeFede’s scoop at CBS Miami, which includes the full text of the Hope Florida grand jury report: Grand jury finds DeSantis administration "misappropriated" $10 million in taxpayer money to Hope Florida To make a donation to Seeking Rents, click here. To register for the Amendment 3 town hall I’ll be moderating, click here. For more details on the Brevard County panel on all the November constitutional amendments that I’ll be participating on, click here. Other stories discussed in today’s show: The net tightens around key figures in the Hope Florida scandal The attorney general has some explaining to do. Will anyone make him? Hidden consultants and hurried payments: Records reveal details of DeSantis’ campaign against abortion and marijuana amendments Did Florida’s attorney general break the law during a Martin Luther King Day legal stunt? Judge finds Florida attorney general in contempt for defying court order in major immigration case Former federal prosecutors see potential charges in Hope Florida saga Caruso’s old sexual abuse allegations are easy to find. Why didn’t DeSantis know? The best and worst of Florida’s 2025 session (so far) The bills discussed in today’s show: House Bill 1445 — Public Employees and Public Officers Passed the Florida House of Representatives by a 97-1 vote (vote sheet) and the Florida Senate by a 37-0 vote (vote sheet) Questions or comments? Send ‘em to [email protected] Listen to the show: Apple | Spotify Watch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe