Ron DeSantis Fires Back At State Lawmaker For Accusing Him Of Traveling To 'Antisemitic Country'

 

Ron DeSantis

TALLAHASSEE, FL — Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has fired back at State Representative Randy Fine’s recent criticism regarding his trip to Ireland. Fine had labeled the country as "antisemitic," a claim DeSantis has strongly refuted.

During a press conference, DeSantis was asked about Fine's accusations. He addressed the issue directly, stating that the trip was made to support Florida State University at a football game against Georgia Tech in the Republic of Ireland. DeSantis questioned Fine’s stance, pointing out that numerous lobbyists from Tallahassee also made the trip.

"Is Representative Fine going to stop taking money from all the lobbyists who made that same trip?" DeSantis challenged, suggesting that Fine's criticism was misplaced and politically motivated. He expressed frustration over the claim, emphasizing that Florida's approach is to be inclusive and welcoming, and that the state does not discriminate based on different characteristics.

DeSantis also responded to inquiries about travel information that had been removed from the Visit Florida website. He indicated that he was aware of the changes only after they occurred and reaffirmed his stance that Florida is open to all visitors. He pointed out that despite criticisms and calls for travel advisories against Florida from activist groups, the state has continued to set tourism records.

"In the second quarter of this year, we had the largest second quarter in the history of the State of Florida," DeSantis noted. "Even amidst a challenging national economy, Florida remains a vibrant and welcoming destination."

The Governor's comments underline his commitment to maintaining Florida’s reputation as a top tourist destination and his rebuttal of criticisms aimed at his recent international travel.

Here are five FAQs related to Ron DeSantis's response to the criticism over his trip to Ireland:

1. What was the nature of the criticism directed at Governor Ron DeSantis?

   • State Representative Randy Fine criticized Governor DeSantis's trip to Ireland, labeling the country as "antisemitic." Fine's criticism was based on the belief that traveling to Ireland was inappropriate due to this characterization.

2. What was Governor DeSantis's response to the criticism?

   • Governor DeSantis refuted the claim, stating that his trip was for supporting Florida State University at a football game. He questioned whether Representative Fine would stop accepting money from lobbyists who also traveled to Ireland, suggesting the criticism was politically motivated.

3. How did Governor DeSantis address the removal of travel information from the Visit Florida website?

   • DeSantis acknowledged being aware of the changes only after they occurred. He emphasized that Florida is open to all visitors and maintains a welcoming stance, regardless of the travel advisories or criticisms it might face.

4. What did Governor DeSantis say about Florida's tourism despite the criticism?

   • DeSantis highlighted that Florida continues to set tourism records, including achieving the largest second quarter in the state's history. He stressed that Florida remains a popular and successful destination despite national economic challenges and political criticisms.

5. How has the criticism affected Florida's tourism industry, according to DeSantis?

   • According to DeSantis, the criticism and travel advisories from activist groups have not negatively impacted Florida’s tourism industry. Instead, Florida has continued to thrive as a top tourist destination, reflecting its strong appeal and economic resilience.