Governor Ron DeSantis, known for championing conservative policies in Florida, recently revealed a surprising legislative gap: the state currently permits marriage between first cousins. He framed the issue not as a matter of personal liberty, but as a vulnerability needing immediate correction.
Speaking at a bill signing focused on combating terrorism, DeSantis used a baseball analogy, calling the lack of a ban a “hanging curveball.” He expressed frustration that Florida lagged behind most other states on this issue, signaling a renewed push to change the law.
The governor didn’t shy away from connecting the issue to broader concerns about cultural integration and national security. He suggested allowing cousin marriage could contribute to what he termed “stealth jihad,” importing practices inconsistent with American and Floridian values.
Florida law already prohibits marriage between close relatives – siblings, parents, grandparents, and direct descendants – but first cousins remain an exception. This omission has sparked debate, with proponents of a ban citing increased risks of genetic disorders in offspring.
A previous attempt to outlaw these marriages, House Bill 733, failed to pass during the recent legislative session. The bill would have made such unions illegal starting next July, but ultimately stalled in the process.
DeSantis has indicated he isn’t abandoning the effort. He hinted at future action, potentially even calling a special session, to revisit the issue before his term ends later this year.
The governor broadened the discussion, linking the cousin marriage debate to his concerns about immigration and the preservation of American values. He argued against “importing people that reject the values of this country,” a sentiment he’s expressed previously.
He referenced the recent arrests of relatives of a deceased Iranian military leader, questioning how they were initially granted legal residency. DeSantis implied a need for stricter vetting processes and a reevaluation of immigration policies.
Alongside this renewed focus on cousin marriage, DeSantis signed a new law granting the state greater authority to designate organizations as “terrorist organizations.” This legislation allows for the dissolution of such groups and a freeze on state funding.
The new law also mandates the expulsion of students found to have supported designated terrorist organizations, further solidifying the state’s stance against extremism and perceived threats to national security.
DeSantis characterized these measures as vital to protecting Florida’s culture and ensuring the state remains aligned with core American principles, signaling a continued commitment to a conservative agenda during his final months in office.
