Investigation Launched into Sexual Assault Allegations Against Prominent Florida Republican Leader

Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has called for the resignation of Republican Party chairman Christian Ziegler following reports of a sexual assault investigation against him. Ziegler, who became chairman in February, has denied the allegations, and no charges have been filed. The investigation was revealed through a heavily redacted police document that mentioned rape and sexual battery. Governor DeSantis expressed his concern about the ongoing investigation and stated that Ziegler should step aside while it is conducted. Ziegler's wife, Bridget Ziegler, is a co-founder of Moms for Liberty, a conservative group that has gained influence in US conservative circles. The alleged incident took place in October in a home in Sarasota, Florida, and the police were notified two days later. Ziegler's lawyer has stated that he has fully cooperated with the investigation and believes he will be exonerated. The investigation was first reported by the Florida Trident, a website operated by the Florida Center for Government Accountability. It was also reported that the woman who filed the complaint had a long-standing sexual relationship with both Zieglers. Christian Ziegler is seen as an ally of former President Donald Trump in Florida politics. His wife, Bridget, is a member of the Sarasota County school board and cofounded Moms for Liberty, a group that campaigns against Covid rules and advocates for parental rights in school curricula and library materials. The Florida Republican Party has acknowledged the allegations but declined to comment further.