DeSantis Slams Florida House Tax Proposals as Political Games

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Wednesday dismissed multiple proposed constitutional amendments aimed at cutting property taxes, labeling them a “political game.” The proposals, introduced by the Florida House last week, are intended to be placed on the 2026 ballot.

DeSantis, who is advocating for drastic cuts in property taxes for homeowners in the next election, expressed his concerns via a post on X, formerly Twitter. He stated, “Placing more than one property tax measure on the ballot represents an attempt to kill anything on property taxes. It’s a political game, not a serious attempt to get it done for the people.”

His comments followed a tweet by Maria Peiro, who criticized the House’s proposals as “half measures” and “confusing.” Peiro has previously run for a congressional seat in South Florida.

House Speaker Daniel Perez, R-Miami, defended the House’s approach in a memo, suggesting that multiple proposals would allow Floridians to choose among different options for tax reform. “If we have faith in the voters to elect us, we should not be afraid to let them be a part of the conversation about the taxes they pay,” Perez wrote.

The House’s proposals included measures to eliminate non-school homestead taxes and phase out such taxes over ten years. Reducing property taxes is crucial for homeowners, yet it raises concerns about funding for essential services in local governments, which rely heavily on property tax revenue.

Among the notable proposals is Rep. Kevin Steele‘s (R-Dade City) initiative to eliminate non-school homestead taxes, and Rep. Monique Miller’s (R-Palm Bay) effort to gradually phase them out. Additionally, other proposals aim to exempt seniors from some property taxes and create new homestead exemptions to aid first-time buyers.

So far, the Florida Senate has not released any similar proposals. The next legislative session is set to begin on January 13, 2026, and the outcome of the property tax debate is being closely monitored by various cities and counties across the state.

DeSantis previously remarked that most property taxes are paid by owners of vacation homes or commercial properties rather than primary residents. He urged for responsible spending by local governments to address tax concerns without imposing unnecessary burdens on citizens.

As discussions continue, lawmakers will need to reach a consensus on how to structure any tax measures ahead of the 2026 elections.