Governor Ron DeSantis sparks concern with violent rhetoric on federal employees

DeSantis defeats Charlie Crist Election 2022 — Incumbent Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, his wife Casey and their children on stage after speaking to supporters at an election night party after winning his race for reelection in Tampa, Fla., Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

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On a trip to New Hampshire last week, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis stated that if elected president, when it comes to federal employees, “we are going to start slitting throats on Day One.” Some employee groups are concerned about his violent language.

Desantis made the comments during a barbecue event hosted by former US senator Scott Brown.

“All these deep-state people, you know, we’re going to start slitting throats on Day One and be ready to go”

The American Federation of Government Employees called it dangerous, disgusting, disgraceful, and disqualifying. They represent 750,000 federal government workers.

The National Association of Letter Carriers said the comments are particularly disgraceful at a time when letter carriers are increasingly being targeted by violent criminals.

DeSantis has recently replaced his campaign manager and laid off about a third of his staff last month.