Episode 89 - Florida's Ethics in Peril: Structural Limitations and Political Appointments

This report analyzes a complex network of alleged conflicts of interest within the Florida state and St. Johns County governments. It focuses on the dual roles of Sam Garrison, a law firm partner and future Florida House Speaker, and his partner Richard Kommando, the St. Johns County Attorney, highlighting how their positions create an unprecedented concentration of power. The document critiques the structural limitations of the Florida Commission on Ethics, suggesting it's ill-equipped to address corruption involving high-level political figures. It details numerous alleged violations of Florida ethics laws and posits that these issues, compounded by federal constitutional infringements, necessitate federal intervention. The report also draws parallels with other government corruption cases that required federal action, concluding that external oversight is essential to restore transparent and accountable governance.