Florida GOP leaders have criticized Christian Ziegler following the disclosure of a rape allegation by a woman after a sexual encounter with him and his wife. The incident is under police investigation, with Ziegler denying the charge.
The case came to light with details obtained by the Florida Center for Government Accountability and revealed by The Washington Post. These details include messages from the woman to Ziegler regarding the planned sexual engagement with his wife, followed by her allegations of rape after Ziegler showed up at her apartment uninvited.
After the incident, Ziegler informed the police that he had consensual relations with the woman, and he previously recorded it but the video was not found. In a 911 call, a friend of the woman reported her assault and that the woman feared leaving her home.
The woman’s allegations have raised concern among Florida GOP members, with Republican Rep. Spencer Roach describing it as “deeply troubling”. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has even suggested that Ziegler resign.
The incident brings criticism of the Zieglers’ advocacy for family conservative values and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation while their private lives are under scrutiny. The looming investigations can challenge their political positions and conservative representation.
