Florida Expands Audit of Multiple County Budgets

Florida's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), created by Gov. Ron DeSantis and now led by newly appointed CFO Blaise Ingoglia, has initiated audits of several local governments, including Broward County, Orange County, Manatee County, and Gainesville, due to concerns about significant spending increases. State officials have cited examples such as Orange County's 57% expenditure rise over five years and are demanding broad access to financial records, contracts, and spending on DEI and environmental programs. County leaders, including Broward's Steve Geller and Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, argue the audits are politically motivated and say increased spending is necessary for infrastructure and public safety. The audits are part of a larger effort by the state to increase fiscal oversight and are backed by the threat of daily fines for non-compliance. Governor DeSantis has suggested the possibility of eliminating local property taxes as part of broader tax reforms. The move has sparked debate over fiscal responsibility versus potential political interference in local governance.