BREAKING: Gov. Ron DeSantis Urges Florida Counties to Request State DOGE Audits

 

Ron DeSantis

JUST IN: Gov. Ron DeSantis Urges Florida Counties to Request State DOGE Audits

Tallahassee, FL – March 2025 – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) has called on counties across the state to request audits from the Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to ensure transparency and accountability in local spending. His statement came after Bay County became the first in the state to voluntarily request an audit.

In a video message posted to social media, DeSantis congratulated Bay County for taking the initiative, emphasizing the importance of financial oversight amid rising property tax assessments.

"Taxpayers Deserve Full Transparency"

DeSantis highlighted concerns about soaring property taxes despite existing homestead exemptions, which have not been enough to protect residents from significant tax burdens.

“Taxpayers are pinched. They’re paying more than they ever have. Shouldn’t you know how this money is being spent, especially in those counties that have seen dramatic increases in their budgets?” DeSantis remarked.

The governor stated that his administration is working with the Florida Legislature to secure more authority for conducting state audits of local governments. However, until such legislation is passed, he urged counties to step up voluntarily.

Florida’s Plan for Property Tax Relief

Beyond financial audits, DeSantis also discussed proposed measures to provide relief to homeowners, particularly senior citizens who have been disproportionately affected by rising property tax rates.

“It’s almost like they have to pay rent to the government just to enjoy their property—and that’s wrong,” he said, vowing to push for reforms.

The Florida governor reiterated his commitment to working with local governments to ensure financial responsibility while continuing his broader push for statewide audits to protect taxpayers.

What’s Next?

With Bay County leading the way, it remains to be seen how many other Florida counties will follow suit in requesting DOGE audits. Meanwhile, DeSantis’ administration is expected to unveil additional measures aimed at easing property tax burdens and strengthening financial transparency in local governance.

FAQs: Florida DOGE Audits & Gov. Ron DeSantis’ Call for Transparency

1. What is the Florida DOGE audit?

The Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) conducts financial audits of local governments to ensure transparency, accountability, and responsible spending of taxpayer dollars.

2. Why did Gov. Ron DeSantis call for counties to request audits?

DeSantis urged counties to voluntarily request audits due to rising property tax assessments and concerns about local government spending. He emphasized that taxpayers deserve to know how their money is being used, especially in counties with increasing budgets.

3. Which county was the first to request a DOGE audit?

Bay County was the first in Florida to voluntarily request a DOGE audit. DeSantis praised this move, calling it a strong example for other counties to follow.

4. How will these audits benefit Florida residents?

The audits aim to:

• Ensure taxpayer money is spent efficiently
• Identify areas of wasteful spending
• Hold local governments accountable
• Provide transparency on rising property tax rates

5. What is DeSantis’ plan for property tax relief?

DeSantis stated that his administration is working with the Florida Legislature to introduce measures that would:

• Protect senior citizens from excessive property tax increases
• Prevent homeowners from being unfairly burdened by rising assessments
• Reform local tax policies to ensure fairness and sustainability

6. Do counties have to request audits, or will the state mandate them?

Currently, counties must voluntarily request audits. However, DeSantis is working with lawmakers to secure state authority to conduct mandatory audits in the future.

7. How can Florida residents track updates on these audits?

Residents can follow official state government channels, Gov. DeSantis’ social media, and local county commission meetings for updates on the audit process and property tax relief efforts.

8. Will this impact property taxes immediately?

While audits may expose wasteful spending and mismanagement, direct property tax relief will depend on future legislative actions and policy reforms.

9. What should other counties do if they want an audit?

Counties interested in requesting a DOGE audit should contact state officials or submit a formal request through their local government offices.

10. How does this initiative affect Florida’s economy?

By holding local governments accountable, ensuring efficient use of funds, and addressing rising property taxes, these audits could contribute to stronger economic stability and greater public trust in Florida’s governance.

Florida tax payers have been hit by local property taxes as many local governments have increased their budgets significantly.

Today, I am calling on all Florida counties and municipalities to voluntarily work with our Florida DOGE team to review local spending and financial… pic.twitter.com/B18TZVOeiZ

— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) March 18, 2025