A Florida school board is urging the resignation of one of its members :Bridget Ziegler amid a sexual assault investigation involving her husband, the state chairman of the Republican Party.
By a 4-1 vote, the Sarasota County School Board passed a resolution requesting Bridget Ziegler’s resignation. Her husband, Christian Ziegler, faces allegations of sexual assault, although no charges have been brought against him. He has denied the accusations through his attorney.
Chair Karen Rose initiated the vote, expressing deep concern over the allegations and foreseeing detrimental media attention that could distract from the board’s work.
Bridget Ziegler, a co-founder of the conservative Moms for Liberty group, opposed the resolution but didn’t indicate any intention to resign from her nearly decade-long position on the board. In Florida, only the governor holds the authority to dismiss school board members.
The alleged assault reportedly occurred on October 2 at a residence in Sarasota, according to a police document with redactions detailing allegations of rape and sexual battery. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Reports suggest a long-standing relationship between the Zieglers and the woman filing the police complaint. Allegedly, the assault happened at her home when she was alone with Mr. Ziegler.
Christian Ziegler, addressing the accusations, expressed confidence that the investigation’s conclusion would exonerate him. Despite pressure from Governor Ron DeSantis and others to resign as the Republican Party’s state chairman, he remains steadfast, emphasizing his dedication to national interests.
The allegations, coupled with revelations of a relationship, have sparked concerns among some in the state, particularly as Bridget Ziegler supported the controversial “Don’t Say Gay” law championed by Governor DeSantis.
Critics, particularly Democrats, have highlighted what they view as a contradiction between the couple’s public stances on family values and the accusations leveled against them. Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried condemned the situation, citing it as an example of hypocrisy.