Florida Republican Party Chair Christian Ziegler Under Investigation for Accusations of Rape
The Florida Republican Party chair, Christian Ziegler, is currently under investigation by the Sarasota Police Department for allegations of rape. This has prompted calls for his resignation from top political figures.
Investigation into Christian Ziegler
Christian Ziegler, the chair of the Florida Republican Party, is currently being investigated by the Sarasota Police Department, as confirmed by Ziegler's attorney, Derek Byrd.
The details of the allegations have not been disclosed, but a heavily redacted police report obtained by CBS News mentioned an accusation of rape and sexual battery that is said to have taken place on October 2 in Sarasota.
Following the investigation, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has called for Ziegler's resignation, stating that it would be difficult for him to continue in his position while under such serious scrutiny.
Allegations Regarding a Three-Way Relationship
The Florida Trident, a nonprofit organization focused on government accountability, reported that a woman claimed to have been involved in a three-way sexual relationship with Christian Ziegler and his wife, Bridget Ziegler, for the past three years.
According to sources close to the investigation, the alleged events being looked into occurred while Christian Ziegler and the woman were alone at her house.
Bridget Ziegler, known for her involvement in the far-right group Moms for Liberty, which opposes references to race or LGBTQ identity in the classroom, has been implicated in the investigation.
Response and Calls for Resignation
Christian Ziegler's attorney, Derek Byrd, has stated that Ziegler has fully cooperated with law enforcement and expressed confidence that no charges will be filed and that Ziegler will be proven innocent.
However, both the Florida Democratic Party and Governor Ron DeSantis have called for Ziegler to step down as state GOP party chair due to the severity of the allegations.
Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, also a Republican, declined to comment on the matter, stating that she had not yet seen the facts surrounding the case.
