Former DeSantis state PAC gives $82.5 million to pro-DeSantis 2024 super PAC
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FLV) – Empower Parents PAC, the new name for Gov. Ron DeSantis’ old “Friends of Ron DeSantis” state political fundraising committee, has transferred the remainder of the governor’s former war chest to a pro-DeSantis 2024 super PAC.
Never Back Down, which formed in the months leading up to DeSantis’ campaign announcement this year, was given the funds on May 31, according to Empower Parents PAC’s website.
The funds transfer was expected for months, as observers noted DeSantis had a large campaign war chest hovering near $100 million even after winning a landslide reelection in 2022 against Democrat Charlie Crist.
The transfer is already drumming up outrage, with one group reportedly filing a complaint with the Federal Election Commission for potential illegal activity.
Empower Parents PAC was rebranded ahead of DeSantis’ 2024 announcement and taken over by Florida Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, R-Spring Hill.
DeSantis’ 2024 announcement occurred on May 24 ahead of wide speculation.
A super PAC is distinct from a regular PAC – or political action committee – in that it operates, officially, independently from any given candidate. Never Back Down has no official affiliation with DeSantis and was founded by Ken Cuccinelli.
Super PACs have no donation caps and unlimited spending capabilities, for example, to purchase advertisements in support of, or in opposition to, any candidate.
Former President Donald Trump, according to polls, the GOP 2024 primary frontrunner, is supported by super PAC Make America Great Again, Inc., which has spent millions in recent months in anti-DeSantis ads.
