The Florida Republican Party has ousted its chairman, Christian Ziegler, amid allegations of sexual assault and a subsequent investigation. According to a report by CNN, a Sarasota Police Department affidavit sourced from the Florida Center for Government Accountability detailed an accusation that Ziegler and his wife planned a three-way with the alleged victim who later revoked consent for an encounter with just Ziegler.
Ziegler did not attend the meeting where his removal was decided and has not been criminally charged in the ongoing investigation. "No one voted for Christian Ziegler," former Florida GOP Chairman Blaise Ingoglia told CNN. His replacement is Evan Power, a longtime lobbyist and local political figure, who previously served as the party's vice chair. Notwithstanding the controversy, Ziegler's attorney, Derek Byrd remains confident in his client's exoneration, stating "We are confident that once the police investigation is concluded no charges will be filed and Mr. Ziegler will be completely exonerated," according to the Miami New Times.
The alleged incident, which occurred on October 2, 2023, led to a broader investigation into Ziegler, potentially involving a breach of video voyeurism laws. Surveillance video evidence supported the accuser's claim that Ziegler arrived at her residence and initiated an unwanted sexual encounter. In the wake of the scandal and investigation, high-profile party members, including Governor Ron DeSantis, have called for his resignation.
Further complicating the case is Ziegler's wife, Bridget, a standing member of the Sarasota County School Board and co-founder of the conservative Moms for Liberty organization.
