Ron DeSantis, the governor of Florida, reportedly made two public appearances in Orlando for the first time since the Republican National Convention and President Joe Biden’s announcement of his dropping his reelection bid.
The governor did not address Vice President Kamala Harris’ candidacy for the Democratic nomination, and he only briefly referenced Biden. Rather, DeSantis mostly discussed marijuana and the state budget.
DeSantis began his morning at the Florida Sheriffs Association 2024 Summer Conference, where he delivered a speech regarding the state’s dedication to law and order, Amendment 3, and certain events that transpired during Joe Biden’s presidency.
The governor began by commending the state’s commitment to the protection of “law and order” and law enforcement personnel.
The governor emphasized that Florida’s budget this year spent less than the previous year, but the funds were still allocated to education, transportation, Everglades restoration, and law enforcement.
He stated that the state will persist in these efforts, despite the fact that other regions of the country are not.
DeSantis emphasized the state’s successful recruitment initiative, which provides a $5,000 incentive to individuals who are either new to law enforcement or are relocating to Florida to pursue a career in the field.
“We want to show people it’s a noble calling and career, and in Florida, I think it is a great career,” he said.
In addition, the governor praised the state’s benefits for law enforcement, such as scholarship programs, incentives for adoption, and anti-rioting legislation, which he claims render defunding law enforcement in Florida a “non-factor.”
On Tuesday, DeSantis accompanied Florida Department of Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. to recognize 74 district teachers of the year for his second appearance.
On Tuesday, DeSantis accompanied Florida Department of Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. to recognize 74 district teachers of the year for his second appearance.
DeSantis emphasized his $4.6 billion initiative to enhance teacher compensation, stating that this was an unprecedented measure in the state of Florida.
“This year alone, we have a categorical provision in our budget of $1.25 billion that can only be used to increase teacher salaries.” he remarked.