Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Delivers 2025 State of the State Address

“Florida leads with purpose and conviction,” DeSantis declared, invoking the words of philosopher Yogi Berra to underscore the importance of clear direction in governance.

“We are guided in our efforts by a strong commitment to the principles on which our country was founded: that our rights come from God, not government.”

Immigration and Rule of Law

DeSantis highlighted recently enacted legislation aimed at addressing illegal immigration, calling it a fulfillment of President Donald Trump‘s mandate. The new laws make it a crime to enter Florida illegally, end “catch and release” policies, and require state and local law enforcement to assist in interior immigration enforcement. “We are not a sanctuary state; we are a rule of law state,” he asserted.

Economic Strength

The governor celebrated Florida’s economic achievements, noting that the state’s economy has ranked first in the nation for two consecutive years. Florida also leads in entrepreneurship, new business formations, and GDP growth among large states, with an unemployment rate below the national average for over 50 months. DeSantis credited policies enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic for attracting people, businesses, and investment, as well as record-breaking tourism, with over 142 million visitors in 2024.

Significant insurance reforms were also spotlighted, with automobile insurance rates dropping 6-10.5% for major providers and the homeowners’ insurance market stabilizing. DeSantis urged the Legislature to fund the My Safe Florida Home program to continue supporting homeowners.

Fiscal Responsibility and Tax Relief

DeSantis touted Florida’s fiscal discipline, including a reduction in state spending this fiscal year, the lowest number of state government workers per capita, and a tripling of the state’s rainy day fund since 2019. The state has paid off 41% of its 180-year debt accumulation in the past six years, leaving Florida with one of the lowest per capita state debts in the country at $660 per citizen—compared to a national debt of over $100,000 per U.S. citizen.

He proposed new tax holidays for marine fuel and Second Amendment purchases, alongside eliminating the state’s business rent tax. DeSantis also called for constitutional protections against rising local property taxes, signaling his support for a potential 2026 ballot measure.

Education Leadership

Florida’s education system, ranked number one nationally for two years, was another focal point. DeSantis praised the state’s universal school choice program, spotlighting Harli McCullough, whose son benefits from a scholarship for students with unique abilities. He also recognized Hernando County‘s Jaime Suarez, named Florida’s Teacher of the Year, and proposed increased funding for teacher salaries and a civics bonus program.

The governor reaffirmed his commitment to keeping university tuition low—unchanged since he took office—and eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs from higher education, ensuring education remains focused on truth and academic rigor.

Social Programs and Environmental Efforts

First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Hope Florida initiative was lauded for connecting nearly 30,000 Floridians to faith-based and private sector resources, reducing reliance on government assistance and saving taxpayers $108 million annually. The program’s emergency arm, Activate Hope, aided over 57,000 residents after Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton in 2024.

On the environment, DeSantis highlighted the Florida Wildlife Corridor’s 18 million acres and record investments in Everglades restoration, water quality, and beach renourishment. He expressed optimism about potential federal block grants under the Trump administration to expedite Everglades projects.

Hurricane Recovery and Other Priorities

Reflecting on the state’s response to recent hurricanes, DeSantis praised utility workers, debris removal efforts, and search-and-rescue operations—including a notable rescue of a dog named “Trooper” by FHP Trooper Orlando Morales. He pledged ongoing support for recovery, including grants for businesses like Pelican Oyster Co., devastated by multiple storms.

Additional priorities included addressing petition fraud, condominium issues, and Second Amendment rights, alongside past achievements like banning land purchases by China, enacting a digital bill of rights, and instituting the death penalty for pedophiles.