Bulwark Takes: Criminal Probe Launched Into DeSantis Linked Charity

Episode Release Date: May 22, 2025

In this episode of Bulwark Takes, host Sam Stein delves into a significant and developing story concerning Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and his wife, Casey DeSantis. Joined by Lawrence Maurer from the Tampa Bay Times, the discussion unpacks the unfolding criminal investigation into the Hope Florida Foundation, a charity closely linked to Casey DeSantis. This summary captures the key points, discussions, insights, and conclusions drawn during the episode.

1. Introduction to the Investigation

The episode opens with Sam Stein introducing Lawrence Maurer, highlighting Maurer's role in breaking the news about a criminal probe involving Governor Ron DeSantis and Casey DeSantis. The investigation centers on the Hope Florida Foundation and allegations of Medicaid fraud that could potentially derail the political aspirations of the DeSantis couple.

Sam Stein [00:00]: "...it involves Ron DeSantis, Casey DeSantis, potential Medicare fraud or Medicaid fraud... their futures in politics are jeopardized by all this."

2. Confirmation of the Criminal Investigation

Lawrence Maurer confirms the existence of a criminal investigation initiated by the Leon County State Attorney's office, which oversees Tallahassee and encompasses state government activities.

Lawrence Maurer [01:17]: "There's actually now a criminal investigation underway, at least involving the Leon County State Attorney's office... they're investigating Hope Florida foundation or relating to it."

This marks the first official confirmation of such an investigation, despite prior calls for scrutiny from various quarters.

3. Timeline of the Investigation

The investigation likely commenced around late April 2025, following the turnover of relevant records by a representative named Alex Andrade to the State Attorney's office. However, the exact start date remains unclear.

Lawrence Maurer [02:28]: "They turned over records to them last month... it probably started around then. It could have started earlier."

4. Understanding Hope Florida

Hope Florida is a charitable initiative spearheaded by Casey DeSantis, designed to reduce reliance on government services by directing individuals to NGOs and churches for assistance. The foundation operates as a 501(c)(3) entity, ostensibly channeling donations to support these non-profits.

Lawrence Maurer [02:59]: "...Hope Florida itself is this initiative that Casey Desantis, the first lady, came up with... taking people off government services... through things like churches."

Launched in 2023, the foundation's mission is to present an alternative to state-funded social safety nets by leveraging charitable organizations.

5. Allegations of Financial Misappropriation

Last October, amidst Governor DeSantis's efforts to defeat constitutional amendments related to recreational marijuana and abortion rights, funds from a Medicaid settlement with Centene, a major Medicaid provider, were directed to the Hope Florida Foundation. The settlement originally amounted to $67 million.

Lawrence Maurer [05:00]: "They took $10 million from a Medicaid settlement, routed it through the charity, and then through two other nonprofits, and then eventually to the chief of staff's political committee."

Contrary to the foundation's intended use, approximately $8.5 million was funneled to 501(c)(4) organizations—often referred to as dark money groups—before reaching a political committee controlled by the governor's chief of staff, raising significant concerns about misuse of funds.

6. Governor DeSantis's Response and State's Explanation

The governor's office contends that the additional $10 million was part of the original settlement, asserting that the total was $67 million rather than the $57 million the investigation suggests. They argue that $10.8 million was allocated as part of the damages, separate from the Medicaid funds owed to the federal government.

Lawrence Maurer [06:49]: "They offered an elaborate explanation... The original settlement was $67 million... $10.8 million was... the baseline for damages."

However, critics argue that this $10 million should have been earmarked for Medicaid-related costs, with a portion expected to be refunded to the federal government, which does not appear to have happened.

7. Internal Republican Dynamics and Legislative Tensions

Contrary to the perception that the Republican Party in Florida uniformly supports DeSantis, internal tensions have surfaced. Many Republican lawmakers are distancing themselves from the governor, reflecting longstanding frictions.

Lawrence Maurer [08:45]: "There are lawmakers in the state party that do not feel like they need to run cover for DeSantis here."

DeSantis's combative relationship with the legislature, characterized by a lack of collaborative governance and perceived vindictiveness, has alienated many within his own party.

Lawrence Maurer [09:03]: "...he's very vindictive and his administration is... There's been simmering tensions."

8. The Role of the Legal System in Florida

The episode examines the impartiality of Florida's legal system in the context of the investigation. Jack Campbell, the Leon County State Attorney, is highlighted as a key figure who has remained relatively uninvolved with political pressures.

Lawrence Maurer [13:19]: "Jack Campbell... has tried to stay out of the political fray."

Despite an accusation from Nikki Freed, a local legislator, regarding DeSantis's misuse of state resources for political campaigns, Campbell's office has refrained from taking action, raising questions about the investigation's progression.

Lawrence Maurer [14:54]: "Last year... Nikki Freed... sent a formal complaint... Jack did nothing with it."

This reticence underscores potential challenges in pursuing the investigation impartially amidst political dynamics.

9. Implications for Casey DeSantis's Political Future

The unfolding scandal poses significant questions about Casey DeSantis's potential gubernatorial ambitions. As the investigation intensifies, Casey has maintained a public defense of Hope Florida, actively engaging with supporters and donors.

Lawrence Maurer [15:23]: "She's trying to make her pitch... telling donors how she responds to what appears to be a significant scandal."

The outcome of the investigation could heavily influence her political trajectory, with ongoing developments expected to shape public perception and donor support.

10. Conclusion and Forward Look

The episode concludes with anticipation of further revelations as the investigation progresses. Lawrence Maurer emphasizes the story's complexity and the likelihood of continued coverage as more details emerge.

Lawrence Maurer [16:18]: "...it could be that she waits until later this year to announce... the prospect of a criminal investigation going on, it looks like this thing could last a while."

Listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for updates as the situation evolves, with expectations of more in-depth reporting in subsequent episodes.

This episode of Bulwark Takes provides a comprehensive overview of the criminal investigation into the Hope Florida Foundation, exploring its implications for the DeSantis political dynasty and the broader landscape of Florida's political and legal systems. Through incisive analysis and expert commentary, Sam Stein and Lawrence Maurer shed light on a developing story with significant ramifications.