Florida's Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia has issued investigative subpoenas to Orange County employees involved in DEI grant programs amid suspicions of document concealment, with the governor emphasizing that courts can enforce compliance.

The subpoenas are part of a broader statewide effort led by DeSantis and Ingoglia to scrutinize local government spending, especially related to DEI initiatives, as part of efforts to improve government efficiency and reduce reliance on property taxes.

During the audit, investigators reviewed 1.2 million emails and found no mention of five DEI-related grants, raising concerns that some documents may have been deliberately removed or hidden.

Orange County officials, including Mayor Jerry Demings, have denied any wrongdoing, asserting full cooperation and denying instructions to alter or delete documents, while criticizing the investigation as politically motivated.

The investigation is linked to a 2026 ballot initiative aimed at property tax relief, with officials criticizing local governments for not reducing taxes despite available funds, and the audits are seen as a step toward fiscal accountability.

The targeted areas of the Orange County audit include procurement, personnel, grants, utilities, and DEI initiatives, with thousands of files provided by county staff during the process.

Critics argue that the DOGE audits are politically motivated efforts by DeSantis to exert control over Democratic-leaning cities, citing past suspensions and replacements of local officials.

The investigation is expected to produce a report within 60 days, and further subpoenas may be issued to other counties if non-cooperation persists.

DeSantis has framed the audits as necessary to root out waste and improve government spending, emphasizing the importance of transparency and full compliance from local officials.

The broader context involves DeSantis's efforts to review 900 state positions and government agencies, inspired by federal initiatives, with the aim of making local governments more efficient and reducing property taxes.

Some officials, like Orange County Commissioner Nicole Wilson, defend their communities, highlighting their growth and investments in public safety, while critics view the audits as political theater.

The investigation was prompted by tips suggesting county employees might have attempted to delete or hide financial information, with Ingoglia suggesting it was probable that some employees tried to conceal details.