October 7, 2025

Grand Jury Investigation into Hope Florida Foundation

News Summary

A grand jury investigation has been launched into the Hope Florida Foundation following allegations of misusing Medicaid funds. The inquiry, focusing on a $10 million settlement from Centene, seeks to uncover the foundation’s financial practices and their political connections amidst calls for accountability and transparency.

Grand Jury Investigation Launched into Hope Florida Foundation Amid Accusations of Misused Medicaid Funds

Leon County prosecutors have initiated a grand jury investigation into the Hope Florida Foundation amidst allegations of potential misuse of Medicaid funds. This development was reported on October 6, 2025.

The investigation is focused on the foundation’s handling of a significant $10 million Medicaid settlement received from Centene, Florida’s largest Medicaid managed-care company. State Attorney Jack Campbell’s office has issued subpoenas for witnesses to testify during the week of October 13, although the identities of those witnesses have not been disclosed.

The inquiry comes on the heels of an “open” investigation confirmed by Campbell’s office regarding records associated with a state House probe that involves the Hope Florida Foundation, which is linked to the Hope Florida assistance program led by First Lady Casey DeSantis. House Health Care Budget Chairman Alex Andrade submitted relevant documents about the foundation’s Medicaid settlement.

Funding Allegations and Political Connections

Following the Medicaid settlement, the Hope Florida Foundation transferred a portion of the funds to two nonprofits: Secure Florida’s Future and Save Our Society from Drugs. These organizations have engaged in political efforts, contributing a combined $8.5 million to a political committee named Keep Florida Clean. This committee is opposing an amendment aimed at legalizing marijuana in 2024. The committee is chaired by James Uthmeier, who previously served as Chief of Staff for Ron DeSantis and is currently the state attorney general.

Concerns regarding the handling of these funds have arisen during legislative inquiries, primarily focusing on whether the funds were misappropriated for political means instead of being utilized for direct assistance. Andrade has accused Uthmeier of concealing information regarding the intended use of the Medicaid settlement funds, labeling the actions as potential money laundering.

Political Response and Implications

The situation has drawn reactions from Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis, who have defended the legitimacy and significance of the Hope Florida program. They assert that the program’s goal is to connect families in need with resources from various state agencies, churches, and private entities. Governor DeSantis has criticized Andrade, calling him a “jackass” and claiming that the grand jury investigation is politically motivated. He has expressed unwavering support for the Hope Florida program, stating that there is “no basis” for the ongoing investigation.

The investigation is unfolding at a politically sensitive time, as Casey DeSantis is rumored to be contemplating a potential political career following her husband’s term as governor. Given the political backgrounds of those involved and the timing of the investigation, public interest is likely to remain high as the case progresses.

Context of the Investigation

The Hope Florida program has been positioned as a critical initiative aimed at assisting families, but the scrutiny surrounding its financial practices has raised questions about the integrity of its operations. The grand jury’s findings may have significant implications for the foundation, its funding practices, and the political landscape in Florida moving forward.

As the investigation develops, stakeholders from various sectors will be closely monitoring the outcomes as they may influence both public perception and the operational framework of similar assistance programs in the state.

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Author: STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER

The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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