Governor Gavin Newsom (D-CA) has accused Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida of signing a controversial "constitutional carry" law behind closed doors in an attempt to protect against dissenters. The law, which was signed last week, allows Floridians to carry concealed firearms without a permit.
Newsom alleged that DeSantis did not sign the bill due to its unpopularity among both Republicans and Democrats in the state. A March survey from the University of North Florida found that 62% of Republican respondents opposed the concealed carry bill “strongly or somewhat,” while overall support for the measure stood at only 21%.
The California governor has long been a vocal critic of his Florida counterpart, who is viewed as a potential Republican presidential candidate for 2024 elections. This latest accusation comes amidst speculation surrounding Newsom's own political ambitions; rumors have swirled regarding his possible bid for presidency via his new organization named 'Campaign for Democracy.' However, he denies these claims.
Following the tragic murders at Nashville elementary school earlier this month - where three children and three adults lost their lives - Governor DeSantis celebrated passing constitutional carry legislation with pride through press releases stating: “Constitutional Carry is in books”. He also warned those opposing it about consequences arising from taking such action contrary to popular opinion.
Apart from criticizing Gov.De Santis' decisions on gun control laws within GOP strongholds like Florida itself , recently during early March speech held Ronald Reagan Presidential Library located Simi Valley area inside Californian borders ;Gov.Newsom went off tangent by rebuking Democratic states supporting what they call 'woke ideology'.