DeSantis’s Final Legislative Session Begins with Controversy and Tension

TL/DR –

The final legislative session for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis created tension when he publicly snubbed House Speaker Danny Perez before delivering his state-of-the-state address. Despite a perceived waning of his political clout, analysts predict DeSantis will still secure most of his agenda, which includes property tax cuts and a pro-Republican Congressional redistricting plan. However, there are concerns that the governor has neglected critical issues such as affordable housing, healthcare, and decent wages, focusing instead on gaining political ground.

Ron DeSantis’s Final Legislative Session Off to a Rocky Start

Governor Ron DeSantis’s final legislative session in Tallahassee began with a noticeable snub towards House Speaker Danny Perez. DeSantis ignored Perez while greeting Senate President Ben Albritton, highlighting ongoing friction in Florida politics.

Rift Between Governor and Florida House

DeSantis’s disregard for Perez, evident during his state-of-the-state address, shocked observers and emphasized the tension between him and the House. Despite this, experts suggest DeSantis’s main legislative goals, including property tax cuts and a pro-Republican Congressional redistricting plan, may still pass due to the Republican majority in the House and Senate.

Political Clout of DeSantis Waning

Though DeSantis’s influence may be decreasing, according to Kyle Kondik of Larry Sabato’s Crystal Ball, this isn’t likely to impact the session’s final outcome. The governor’s future national political goals are expected by some to overshadow the current session, with legislative actions likely providing opportunities for him to take credit.

Anticipating Special Session

With key GOP objectives on property tax cuts and redistricting potentially unresolved at the end of the regular session, DeSantis is preparing for a special session in late April. His administration hasn’t proposed specific property tax changes, leaving the Legislature to propose constitutional amendments.

House and Governor at Odds

Disagreement between the House and Governor on property tax reform does not seem significant, as DeSantis cannot veto constitutional amendments proposed by the Legislature. Meanwhile, disputes between the two chambers left several measures unresolved in 2025, including a proposed sales tax cut by Perez.

Tensions Amid Session Start

Despite political differences, Perez and Albritton maintain a good personal relationship and are committed to working together. However, their cooperation and unity might be tested as DeSantis continues to cause waves in Florida’s political landscape. The governor focused on his administration’s achievements during his speech, leaving little clues about his legislative priorities for 2026.

Accomplishments and Criticisms

DeSantis can boast about various accomplishments in his two terms as Governor, including fiscal solvency and environmental improvements. His conservative base applauds his “anti-woke” legislation. However, Democrats criticize DeSantis for neglecting Floridians’ deeper needs, such as affordable housing, health care, and decent wages.

Shaped by Political Ambitions

House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell accuses DeSantis of prioritizing his political career over the needs of Florida’s working families. As DeSantis’s tenure comes to a close, the repercussions of his actions, both positive and negative, are likely to be felt long after he leaves office.

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