Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is navigating a turbulent political landscape following the controversial proposal to build golf courses in Jonathan Dickinson State Park. The plan, which involved golf legends Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus, has faced significant backlash, leading to its suspension and casting a shadow over DeSantis' political standing.
The proposal aimed to introduce two new golf courses-one designed by Woods and the other by Nicklaus-in the state park located in Southeast Florida. Eugene Stearns, an attorney representing Nicklaus, confirmed to NBC News that Nicklaus would have offered his design services pro bono. "For Jack, it was a charitable issue," Stearns explained. The initiative was part of a broader "Great Outdoors Initiative" which also included enhancements like pickleball courts and new lodges across nine state parks.
However, the golf course proposal quickly became a flashpoint for controversy. DeSantis' administration, which initially supported the plan, faced a wave of criticism from a broad political spectrum, including environmental groups, state Republicans, and even some Democrats. The backlash was so intense that DeSantis was compelled to distance himself from the proposal. "It was not approved by me. I never saw that," DeSantis told reporters, dismissing the plan as "half-baked."
The proposal's unveiling and subsequent fallout have put DeSantis on the defensive, particularly as he struggles with political challenges in Florida. The plan was initially spearheaded by Folds of Honor, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting military families through golf-related fundraising. They aimed to leverage the golf courses to raise money for scholarships and support services. However, after a strong public outcry, Folds of Honor and the lesser-known Tuskegee Dunes Foundation, which had also been linked to the proposal, withdrew their support. "We have received clear feedback that Jonathan Dickinson State Park is not the right location," the Tuskegee Dunes Foundation posted on its website.
The proposal's controversy has unfolded amid broader political struggles for DeSantis. The governor's approval ratings have waned, partly due to his unsuccessful presidential campaign, which saw him trailing behind former President Donald Trump. The political dynamics in Florida are shifting as DeSantis' allies, including those who once supported him, are increasingly vocal in their opposition.
DeSantis' political troubles extend beyond the golf course debacle. Recent primary elections revealed underperformance among local school board candidates he endorsed. Additionally, DeSantis has faced criticism from within his party, including a notable feud with state Representative Matt Gaetz. Gaetz has publicly condemned DeSantis' environmental policies, stating, "Please use your excellent leadership skills to kill this anti-Florida Man initiative. Keep our parks natural."
The governor is also dealing with significant upcoming ballot measures on abortion access and recreational marijuana, both of which are expected to pass despite his opposition. DeSantis and his allies have been actively campaigning against these measures, but the anticipated outcome could further impact his political legacy.
In Tallahassee, there is growing anticipation that incoming legislative leaders will challenge DeSantis more assertively. Political consultant Jamie Miller noted, "I do think that when the governor was tone-deaf in the past, people would go along with it. And now they're positioning themselves for their political futures." The shifting dynamics suggest a potential erosion of DeSantis' influence as he faces increasing scrutiny and opposition.
Despite DeSantis' attempt to downplay the significance of the golf course proposal controversy, the incident has highlighted a broader struggle to maintain his political capital. The governor, once a rising star in the Republican Party known for his conservative stances and handling of COVID-19, is now grappling with the fallout of a high-profile misstep and its implications for his future political aspirations.
