Golf Simulator Donation Sparks Controversy at Governor’s Mansion
In a move that’s stirring the pot in Florida politics, Mori Hosseini, a prominent homebuilding magnate, dropped a pricey golf simulator into the lap of the Florida Governor’s Mansion shortly after Ron DeSantis took office in 2019. This incident, which has recently come to light through various reports, has grabbed the attention of both critics and supporters of the governor, especially as he gears up for a run for president.
What’s the Big Deal?
So why all the fuss? The top-of-the-line golf simulator from AboutGolf comes with a hefty price tag, starting at $27,500 for basic models and shooting to over $69,500 for curved screen versions. This isn’t just a toy—it’s state-of-the-art equipment that can keep the First Family entertained, especially when the sun’s not shining.
Connections Run Deep
Hosseini is not just any ordinary donor. He serves as the chairman of the Board of Trustees for the University of Florida and has a long history of supporting Republican candidates, with DeSantis being a primary beneficiary. His financial backing goes way back to DeSantis’s time in Congress, making this golf simulator look more like a friendly gesture than a simple loan.
Adding fuel to the fire, it’s been reported that Hosseini has lent the DeSantis family his private plane at least a dozen times and even hosted the governor for a round of golf at the elite Augusta National Golf Club back in 2018. Critics are raising eyebrows, suggesting that this cozy relationship raises ethical questions.
Legal or Unethical?
Hosseini maintains that donating a golf simulator to the Governor’s Mansion is “entirely permissible under Florida law.” He asserts that the equipment is there for the enjoyment of the family, guests, and even the staff during current and future administrations. However, the underlying question remains: was this a gift to the governor, awaiting disclosure as state law requires for gifts worth over $100, or was it something different?
Official Letters Confirming the Loan
Back in 2019, a letter from James Uthmeier, who was then working as a lawyer for DeSantis and is now his chief of staff, acknowledged receipt of the golf simulator. The letter declared that the equipment would be stored within the mansion’s gym and could be returned upon request. Uthmeier’s assurance of its compliance with ethical guidelines does suggest the state is managing the optics, but it still leaves many questions unanswered.
Public Reaction Runs Hot and Cold
As expected, reactions are pouring in. For some, like Jason Miller who is close to former President Trump, this is evidence of the “Florida Swamp in Action.” Meanwhile, others, like Republican strategist Rick Wilson, are rolling their eyes, tweeting, “Damn those elites with their golf simulators and private jet flights.” It seems like every mention of the simulator is just another opportunity for political jabs.
Supporters of DeSantis have defended the governor, claiming the Washington Post’s attention on this matter is unfair. A Twitter account promoting DeSantis responded that the article is nothing more than a poorly aimed hit piece, emphasizing that the golf simulator loan was approved as ethical according to state laws.
The Big Picture
The simmering controversy around this golf simulator is just one thread in a larger narrative of politics in Florida and beyond. On one hand, it showcases the constant back-and-forth between political opponents aiming to undermine one another. On the other, it raises crucial questions about transparency and ethics in public office. For now, all eyes are on DeSantis as he navigates this political minefield and prepares for a challenging presidential race ahead.
