Frank Artiles Sentenced in Ghost Candidate Scheme

Frank Artiles, a former Florida state senator, was sentenced to 60 days in jail for his role in a ghost candidate scheme that helped flip a Senate seat from Democrat José Javier Rodriguez to Republican Ileana Garcia in 2020. The sentence includes five years of probation, 500 hours of community service, and a ban from political activities. Judge Miguel de la O stated that the case reflects the toxic nature of current politics and emphasized the need for accountability in such corrupt practices. Artiles was found guilty of multiple charges, including illegal campaign contributions, and is appealing the verdict, which has resulted in the sentence being stayed. Prosecutors argued that the ghost candidate, Alex Rodriguez, was financed to siphon votes from Rodriguez, leading to a narrow victory by just 32 votes. The case has raised concerns over the influence of dark money and manipulation within Florida's political landscape.