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NewsCreative Loafing TampaJuly 30, 2026Florida

Calls for Release of Grand Jury Report on Hope Florida Funds

Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried is urging U.S. Senator Ashley Moody to facilitate the release of a grand jury report regarding the redirection of $10 million in taxpayer funds to the Hope Florida Foundation. The funds, originally part of a legal settlement, were allegedly used to oppose a 2024 ballot initiative, sparking investigations and ongoing calls for transparency.

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Why It Matters

The public release of this report would clarify how $10 million in state settlement funds were managed and whether they were used for political purposes, impacting public trust and government accountability.

Key Facts

  • A grand jury investigation into the $10 million Hope Florida fund transfer concluded with no charges brought.
  • The $10 million was part of a $67 million settlement between the state and Centene Health Plan.
  • The remaining $57 million of the settlement was allocated to the Florida Agency of Healthcare Administration.
  • State law requires grand jury reports to be released within 15 days of completion unless redactions or withholding are requested by involved parties.
  • The funds were allegedly used to help defeat a 2024 ballot initiative regarding recreational marijuana.
  • James Uthmeier has not confirmed whether he requested the court to keep the grand jury report secret.
  • Ashley Moody was a signatory to the original settlement agreement as Attorney General.
  • The Florida House of Representatives conducted an investigation into the matter in 2025.

Who's Mentioned

personRon DeSantis“Governor of Florida.”personJohn Guard“Former deputy attorney general.”personAngie Nixon“Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate.”personNikki Fried“Florida Democratic Party Chair calling for the report's release.”personCasey DeSantis“First Lady who launched the Hope Florida initiative.”personJack Campbell“State Attorney who led the grand jury investigation.”personAlex Andrade“State Representative commenting on the settlement.”personAlex Vindman“Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate.”organizationHope Florida Foundation“Recipient of $10 million in diverted settlement funds.”personJames Uthmeier“Former chief of staff to Gov. DeSantis.”personAshley Moody“U.S. Senator and former Attorney General involved in the original settlement.”