Florida Republican Party suspends chairman, demands his resignation amid rape investigation

Ziegler was accused of raping the same woman he and his wife previously had a consensual relationship with, according to police records.

By Madeleine Hubbard

Published: December 17, 2023 4:11pm

Updated: December 17, 2023 4:17pm

The Republican Party of Florida on Sunday suspended Chairman Christian Ziegler and called on him to resign during an emergency meeting as he faces demands to step down while officials investigate a rape allegation against him.

"Christian Ziegler has engaged in conduct that renders him unfit for the office," the party's censure motion against Ziegler said, according to a picture of the document posted by Lee County GOP Chairman Michael Thompson.

Ziegler was accused of raping the same woman he and his wife, Moms for Liberty co-founder Bridget Ziegler, previously had a consensual relationship with, according to police records obtained by The Associated Press.

The Sarasota Police Department is investigating the woman's accusation that Ziegler raped her in October.

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