Gov. Ron DeSantis, R-Fla, distanced himself from a bill introduced last week that would require a blogger to register with the state of Florida if they write about state officials. Speaking at a news conference Tuesday, Gov. DeSantis said he was surprised he had become associated with the bill.
“I see these people filing bills and then there’s articles with my face on the article, saying that ‘bloggers are going to have to register with the state,’ attributing it to me,” DeSantis said. “That’s not anything I’ve ever supported, I don’t support. I’ve been very clear about what we’re doing, and so people have the right to file legislation they have the right to do different types of amendments and all that other stuff.”
In addition to DeSantis, the Florida blogger bill has also been criticized by free speech advocates and journalists on both sides of the aisle. They argue it constitutes a gross violation of the First Amendment.
The news conference came following DeSantis’ annual State of the State address Tuesday. Potentially looking to build momentum for a presidential run, DeSantis positioned himself as the architect of a new conservative vision for the nation.
“So we find ourselves in Florida on the front lines in the battle for freedom. Together, we have made Florida the nation’s most desired destination, and we have produced historic results,” DeSantis said. “Don’t worry about the chattering class. Ignore all the background noise. Keep the compass set to true north. We will stand strong. We will hold the line. We won’t back down. And I can promise you this. You ain’t seen nothing yet.”
