Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has been busy signing several controversial measures in recent weeks. The governor, who has been widely chastised, is sticking to his guns with yet another ludicrous proposal to form an election police unit.
On Monday, DeSantis signed the bill to create a specialized police force to investigate suspected voter fraud. This measure comes highly praised by his fellow Republicans, who have stood by former President Donald Trump’s claims that the 2020 election was rigged. Multiple investigations found no evidence of voter fraud. Nevertheless, DeSantis, who is intensely eyeing the 2024 presidential race, is dead-set on ensuring nothing stands in the way of his possible election. He is also gunning for re-election as governor, so his renewed interest in the voting system comes as no surprise.
The new law will establish an Office of Election Crimes and Security within the Florida Department of State. Their sole duties will be to review fraud allegations and conduct preliminary investigations. Existing state law authorizes DeSantis to appoint officials to examine suspected voter fraud, but it is not required. Critics of the bill are certain that it is politically motivated.
“Even the governor has said that Florida’s 2020 election was secure. Yet this new election crime task force has been developed to solve a problem that does not exist,” Rep. Yvonne Hayes Hinson stated.
Additionally, the bill changes the name of drop boxes to “secure ballot intake stations.” Some drop boxes will still exist but must be supervised during drop-offs.
Lawmakers have designated more than $2.6 million and 25 positions for the police force.
