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Florida Republican and Husband to Moms for Liberty Co-Founder accused of rape. [1]

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Date: 2023-12-02  

In a case that has sent ripples through Florida's political landscape, Christian Ziegler, Chair of the Florida Republican Party, finds himself at the center of a grave allegation. The Sarasota Police Department is investigating Ziegler following an accusation of sexual assault. Details from a heavily redacted police report indicate the alleged incident occurred on October 2 at a Sarasota home, with the victim filing a complaint shortly thereafter.

Ziegler, steadfast in his defense, has asserted his innocence through his attorney, Derek Byrd. He maintains full cooperation with the investigation and expresses confidence in being exonerated, urging the public to withhold judgment until the conclusion of the investigation.

Amid this turmoil, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has publicly called for Ziegler's resignation as the state's GOP Chair, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the party's leadership despite the principle of presumed innocence.

Further complicating matters, Ziegler is married to Bridget Ziegler, a prominent figure in Sarasota County and co-founder of the conservative group Moms for Liberty. This group has gained significant traction in Florida, especially under the DeSantis administration. Bridget Ziegler's involvement with the group, and her decision to step back from its board in 2021, adds another layer to the unfolding narrative.

Anonymous sources allege that the Zieglers were engaged in a consensual three-way relationship with the victim, although Bridget Ziegler was reportedly not present during the alleged assault. Moms for Liberty has expressed support for Bridget, asserting confidence in her ability to share her perspective.

As political and social implications of the allegations mount, the Republican Party of Sarasota County has expressed shock and disappointment, vowing full cooperation with investigators. Meanwhile, Nikki Fried, chair of the Democratic Party of Florida, has called for Ziegler's immediate resignation.

This situation presents a stark contrast between the public personas of the Zieglers as prominent conservative figures and the serious allegations they now face, highlighting the complex interplay of personal conduct and public responsibility in the realm of politics

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[1] Url: https://dailykos.com/stories/2023/12/2/2209259/-Florida-Republican-and-Husband-to-Moms-for-Liberty-Co-Founder-accused-of-rape?pm_campaign=front_page&pm_source=more_community&pm_medium=web

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