Pinellas GOP calls for Florida GOP Chairman Ziegler to step down over sexual assault case

CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Pinellas County Republican Executive Committee called for the resignation of Republican Party of Florida Chairman Christian Ziegler Tuesday amidst an ongoing sexual assault investigation.

“It is time for Christian Ziegler to resign as Chair of the Republican Party of Florida,” the party said. “We have read the reports provided and the allegations are very disturbing.”

Republican Party of Pinellas County Chairman Adam Ross, state committeeman Todd Jennings and state committeewoman Pam McAloon signed onto the statement.

“It is a fundamental right of our Constitutional Republic that we are innocent until proven guilty, and Christian will get that right,” it said. “Victims also have a right to be heard in court. We are praying for all parties involved.”

“The Party’s Executive Board has an important decision to make. The mission for the RPOF Chair is to uphold the values of the Republican Party and help our great candidates win elections,” the statement said. “We do not see how that can be done while Christian is dealing with his present personal affairs.”

Several elected officials across the state, including Gov. Ron DeSantis, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, Senate President Kathleen Passidomo and Republican Sen. Rick Scott have called for the chairman’s resignation.

“I think he should step aside and think he should attend to that. He’s innocent until proven guilty, but we just can’t have a party chair that is under that type of scrutiny,” DeSantis told an ABC reporter on Friday.

DeSantis was also asked about Ziegler Tuesday, reiterating his belief that Ziegler should put his full focus on the investigation.

News of the investigation emerged last week. Ziegler’s attorney has maintained Ziegler is innocent, and the chairman has not yet indicated he will step down.

“We are confident that once the police investigation is concluded that no charges will be filed and Mr. Ziegler will be completely exonerated,” attorney Derek Byrd said.

“Unfortunately, public figures are often accused of acts that they did not commit whether it be for political purposes or financial gain. I would caution anyone to rush to judgment until the investigation is concluded,” the attorney said. “Out of respect for the investigation, this is all Mr. Ziegler or myself can say at this time.”