Governor DeSantis Uses Final State of the State to Highlight Eight Years in Office

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Governor Ron DeSantis used his final State of the State address to lawmakers to reflect on his eight years in office while outlining policy goals he says should guide Florida’s future.

DeSantis said his administration focused on public safety, fiscal discipline, and conservative governance, calling Florida a “state of law and order” and contrasting it with policies in other parts of the country. He highlighted actions taken during his tenure on crime, immigration enforcement, education policy, and economic growth, arguing those decisions have helped Florida remain stable while other states face rising crime and financial challenges.

Looking ahead, the governor laid out several priorities he wants lawmakers to consider, including eliminating property taxes, creating what he calls an “AI Bill of Rights,” expanding the state’s rainy day fund, and continuing a shift in education policy away from what he describes as ideological influence in classrooms. DeSantis also reiterated his focus on immigration enforcement and cooperation with federal authorities.

One of the most immediate political issues raised during the address is redistricting. DeSantis has already called a special legislative session in April to revisit Florida’s congressional maps ahead of the midterm elections, citing population changes and the need for equal representation. The move is expected to spark debate, particularly among Democrats, who have criticized the timing and necessity of another redistricting effort.

House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell responded after the address, saying lawmakers should prioritize issues such as affordability, housing, and insurance rather than redrawing political boundaries.

With DeSantis term-limited and unable to seek reelection, the address marked a capstone moment for his governorship. As Florida prepares for a competitive 2026 election cycle, many of the policies he promoted are expected to remain central themes in the political debate over the state’s direction once he leaves office.