Florida Budget Stalemate: DeSantis Clashes with GOP Lawmakers as Tensions Rise
May 4, 2025
The Florida legislative session adjourned on May 2, 2025, without a finalized budget, prompting an extension until early June to reach agreements before the new fiscal year begins on July 1.
This session marked a significant challenge for Governor Ron DeSantis, as Republican lawmakers increasingly defied his directives, indicating a shift in his influence over the legislature.
Amid rising tensions, DeSantis publicly criticized House Republicans, labeling them the 'House of Pettiness' for undermining his agenda and contributing to budget dysfunction.
The budget delay has intensified a public feud between DeSantis and Republican House leadership, highlighting the dysfunctionality of the ongoing negotiations.
Legislative leaders proposed a budget of $113 billion from the House and $117.4 billion from the Senate, while DeSantis projected a $115.6 billion budget, with disagreements primarily centered around tax cuts.
Despite setbacks, DeSantis ultimately signed immigration legislation that included stricter penalties for undocumented immigrants committing serious crimes.
Tensions between DeSantis and House Speaker Daniel Perez have been exacerbated by ongoing investigations into the governor's actions.
Senate President Albritton has attempted to mediate between the governor and the House, but deep-seated differences remain a significant barrier.
In a separate development, four South Florida clinics are participating in a nationwide trial studying the effects of benfotiamine on slowing Alzheimer's disease progression.
The session was characterized by internal conflicts and unfulfilled promises within Florida's Republican-controlled Legislature.
Senate President Ben Albritton expressed hope for productive conversations with the House to create a budget framework.
DeSantis aimed to advance President Trump's immigration agenda and address South Florida's condominium crisis, but his influence has diminished as lawmakers rejected his proposals.
Summary based on 20 sources