State Investigation of Ex-Senator's Spending

The recent resignation of University of Florida President Ben Sasse has sparked controversy following revelations of his significant spending and questionable hiring practices. An investigation by the student-run Independent Florida Alligator uncovered that Sasse awarded lucrative consulting contracts and appointed several former Senate staffers and Republican allies to high-paying positions. In response, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and the state’s chief financial officer are urging the university's governing board to conduct a thorough investigation into these actions. During his first year in office, Sasse's office expenditures reached $17.3 million, a stark increase from the $5.6 million spent by his predecessor, Kent Fuchs. This financial surge raises concerns, especially given the university's overall budget of $9 billion. Critics point to Sasse's limited experience, having previously served as president of a small Nebraska university, as a factor contributing to his controversial hiring decisions. In a statement on social media, Sasse defended his actions, asserting that the hires were essential for the university's expansion efforts, including new satellite campuses and advancements in artificial intelligence and technology. Notably, he appointed Raymond Sass, his former chief of staff, as vice-president for innovation at a salary of $396,000, significantly higher than his previous earnings. Other former staffers also received substantial salaries, further fueling the scrutiny surrounding Sasse's tenure. As the university community and state officials call for accountability, the implications of Sasse's spending and hiring practices continue to unfold, raising questions about governance and fiscal responsibility at Florida's flagship university.