In the midst of a swirling controversy surrounding the current leader of the Republican Party of Florida (RPOF), Christian Ziegler, Vice Chair Evan Power has officially declared his candidacy for the party’s chair position. Ziegler currently faces a sexual assault investigation, prompting calls for his resignation from prominent Republican figures, including Governor Ron DeSantis and Senator Marco Rubio.
After the events of the last few weeks many people have reached out to ask what I was planning to do if a vacancy became apparent in the Chairmanship. I care about the party first and with the election so close I feel called to step into the breach and get the party working… pic.twitter.com/tGDHdhUc2U
— Evan Power (@EvanPower) December 19, 2023
The Republican state executive committee is set to convene on January 8 for a crucial meeting, during which Ziegler’s membership status will be put to a vote. Simultaneously, Evan Power is seeking the support of fellow RPOF members to assume the role of chair, asserting that the party must move forward swiftly and efficiently, especially with the 2024 elections looming.
After the recent events, which led to the removal of Ziegler’s authority and a reduction of his salary to $1, the party is now at a crossroads. Ziegler is no longer permitted to fundraise or speak on behalf of the Florida GOP. The controversy emerged as a result of a sexual assault accusation made against Ziegler, who admits to a consensual sexual encounter but vehemently denies any wrongdoing. Investigation documents reveal that the accuser had previous intimate relations with both Ziegler and his wife, Sarasota County School Board member Bridget Ziegler.
Evan Power, who had previously contested against Ziegler for the position of state chair earlier this year, narrowly lost in February. Ziegler had endorsed Power as vice chair to foster party unity after their closely contested race. The dynamics within the party were perceived as a victory for supporters of former President Donald Trump against those aligned with Governor Ron DeSantis, both of whom are currently vying for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination.
Power, currently serving as vice chair, has called for Ziegler’s resignation in the weeks leading up to the January 8 meeting. A two-thirds vote is required to remove Ziegler’s membership status, and the full executive committee is expected to meet in Tallahassee for the purpose of formally removing Ziegler and electing a new state chair.
Governor Ron DeSantis, head of the Florida GOP, Senator Marco Rubio, and other Republican lawmakers have joined the chorus demanding Ziegler’s resignation. However, Ziegler maintains his innocence and expresses confidence in being vindicated. The upcoming days will prove critical for the Florida GOP as it navigates this internal crisis while preparing for the crucial 2024 elections.