Newsweek scathed for ‘clickbait’ headline suggesting DeSantis will get a pay raise

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Newsweek is under fire for a story post suggesting that Gov. Ron DeSantis might benefit from legislation progressing through the Florida Legislature giving state officials pay raises, a measure being supported by Republican lawmakers.

The bill includes a raise for Florida’s governor to at least match that of the Florida Supreme Court justices, at over $250,000 – it would take effect after DeSantis leaves office.

“Florida Republicans push to double governor’s salary,” the Newsweek’s post on X reads, with a picture of DeSantis below, and no context given that it wouldn’t apply to the incumbent, who will exit office before the bill would give the raises in the 2027-2028 fiscal year.

Gov. Ron DeSantis’ current salary is just over $141,000. Rep. Tom Leek, R-Ormond Beach, sponsored the House bill.

The Newsweek report does not explain the bill won’t apply to DeSantis until readers scroll down to the fifth paragraph, listed below a large photo of DeSantis.

Before listing the bill’s lack of impact on DeSantis, Newsweek mentions that DeSantis withdrew from the presidential campaign in January.

“Newsweek is pure clickbait!” said Christina Pushaw, a member of DeSantis’ political team. “Shameful how they use @GovRonDeSantis photo on articles that have nothing to do with him, just to get clicks.”

District court of appeals judges would make at least 90% of what supreme court justices make, while circuit court judges and county court judges would make at least 80% and 75%, respectively. The cabinet members each make $139,987.90.

Additionally, the lieutenant governor, chief financial officer, attorney general and agriculture commissioner would be required to make at least 95% of what the governor makes.

The bill is being considered along with the state’s appropriation package, of which each chamber has passed its own version. The House is set to consider the revised spending package next week.