Florida GOP punishes Moms for Liberty co-founder’s husband over rape allegations
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The Florida Republican Party has made a decisive move by voting to eject its chair, Christian Ziegler, following allegations of rape that have rocked the party. This dramatic turn of events comes as police continue to investigate accusations that Ziegler raped a woman with whom he and his wife, Bridget Ziegler, engaged in consensual threesomes.
In a special vote held on Monday, a majority of 200 state Republicans voted to oust Christian Ziegler and replace him as party chair. The decision was met with mixed reactions, with some party members expressing frustration that valuable time and energy were being spent on this issue instead of focusing on important matters. State Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, one of the Republicans who voted for Ziegler’s removal, lamented the harm that has been done to the Republican Party of Florida.
The allegations against Ziegler have prompted a strong response from within the party. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, known for his staunch anti-LGBTQ+ stance, publicly called for Ziegler’s resignation, stating that the party cannot afford to have a chair under such scrutiny. This statement underscores the severity of the accusations and their potential impact on the party’s reputation.
The allegations stem from an incident that occurred on October 2, 2023. The couple’s former threesome partner filed a complaint with the police on October 4, alleging that she was sexually assaulted by Christian Ziegler in her own home. Sources close to the investigation have revealed that the woman had been engaged in a sexual relationship with both Zieglers for the past three years. It is important to note that Bridget Ziegler was not present during the alleged assault.
Bridget Ziegler’s involvement in the threesomes has raised additional concerns and sparked criticism. As a co-founder of Moms for Liberty, an organization that opposes LGBTQ+ content in public schools and equal rights, her participation in such activities appears contradictory. The juxtaposition of her personal life and her public stance has drawn significant attention and intensified scrutiny.
According to a police affidavit, the accuser claims that she and the Zieglers had planned a sexual encounter for October 2. However, when Bridget Ziegler became unavailable, the woman canceled, stating that she had primarily been interested in her. Nevertheless, Christian Ziegler allegedly showed up at her apartment door and forced his way inside, where he sexually assaulted her. The victim alleges that Ziegler did not use a condom and callously remarked, “I’m leaving the same way I came in.”
Surveillance footage captured Christian Ziegler at the woman’s apartment, further substantiating her claims. Ziegler has admitted to engaging in consensual sex with the woman but vehemently denies any non-consensual actions. However, the victim reported to the police that she was heavily intoxicated from consuming tequila throughout the day and was unable to provide consent. Moreover, there are indications that Ziegler may have violated the law by recording their sexual encounter without the woman’s consent, potentially committing the crime of video voyeurism.
In light of these allegations, Bridget Ziegler has faced professional consequences as well. She was quietly removed from her position as director of the School Board Leadership Program at the Leadership Institute, an organization that trains conservative activists. Additionally, the Sarasota School Board unanimously passed a resolution calling for her resignation, though she has thus far refused to step down.
As of now, no charges have been filed in connection with the case. The ongoing investigation will determine the legal implications and potential repercussions for Christian Ziegler. This scandal has undoubtedly shaken the Florida Republican Party, leaving many questioning its leadership and raising concerns about the party’s reputation. The decision to eject Ziegler from his position reflects a commitment to addressing these serious allegations and restoring faith in the party.
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