Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has initiated a state-led investigation into the recent attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at his West Palm Beach golf club, citing concerns over federal transparency and cooperation.
In an executive order issued under the directive of Executive Order 24-197, DeSantis tasked state law enforcement agencies with investigating the incident, bypassing federal authorities whom he accused of obstructing the state’s efforts to uncover the truth.
According to DeSantis, Florida investigators faced obstacles from the FBI when attempting to gain access to the scene of the crime, a move the governor called deeply concerning.
“I have directed state agencies to move expeditiously and to provide full transparency to the public,” DeSantis said, criticizing the federal authorities for allegedly rebuffing state investigators. “The FBI’s unwillingness to include Florida in this investigation raises serious concerns, particularly as there were numerous violations of Florida law.”
DeSantis’ decision to take on an independent investigation underscores his growing frustration with what he sees as a lack of openness from federal agencies.
He linked this incident to previous high-profile cases—such as the 2017 Las Vegas shooting—where he claimed that important details remained unresolved due to a lack of federal transparency.
FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass, who is leading the state investigation, expressed his determination to get answers for Floridians. “The people of Florida deserve answers, and we will not stop until we know the truth and how we can best prevent similar attacks in Florida,” Glass said.