Florida Employee Fired for Leaking Park Plans

James Gaddis, a former employee of Florida's Department of Environmental Protection, has been fired after leaking plans for controversial developments in nine state parks, including golf courses and hotels. Gaddis, who described himself as an ethical whistleblower, expressed concern over the environmental impact of these proposals, stating that they were being rushed without proper public engagement. Following his leak, public outcry prompted the state to suspend the plans, which Florida Governor Ron DeSantis labeled as 'half-baked' and not ready for implementation. Gaddis was placed on administrative leave and subsequently terminated for allegedly violating department policies regarding unauthorized disclosures. His actions have garnered public support, with many seeing him as a hero for raising awareness about the plans. The Florida DEP has not commented on the situation, and Gaddis has started a GoFundMe to support himself and his daughter during this transition.