Former University of Florida President Ben Sasse has responded to allegations of inappropriate spending during his tenure, vehemently defending his actions. The Republican senator, who left his seat representing Nebraska in 2023 to lead the university, has faced scrutiny after a report by the Independent Florida Alligator revealed a threefold increase in spending under his leadership. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has called for an investigation into Sasse's use of funds.

In a lengthy statement posted on the social platform X, Sasse acknowledged the substantial funding for various new initiatives during his time as president. He expressed his willingness to defend each of these initiatives, emphasizing his commitment to reforming higher education. Sasse had taken on the role at the University of Florida with the aim of spearheading significant changes in the education system.

The former senator defended his spending by highlighting that the expenditures were approved by the university's board of trustees, system's board of governors, and the university's audit committee. He outlined his plans for the funds, including reforms to the core curriculum, partnerships with the space industry, and the authorization of K-12 charter programs across the state. Sasse firmly believed that these initiatives would greatly benefit the people of Florida if implemented successfully.

Much of the increased spending was attributed to the hiring of expensive consultants and former Senate aides, as reported by the Alligator. Sasse admitted to making these hires but justified his decisions as necessary to execute his proposed initiatives. He explained that he had convinced individuals who had worked with him in previous roles to join his team, a common practice for CEOs taking on new responsibilities.

Sasse also mentioned a proposal to consolidate the university's 200 academic programs as part of his efforts to tighten spending. However, he acknowledged that it was met with resistance and described it as one of his more unpopular proposals from 2023. Earlier this year, the former university leader had gained national attention for dismantling the university's diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, as well as closing down its diversity office.

Amid ongoing debates over whether the spending was justified, Sasse expressed his willingness to provide a broader memo detailing his approach to the governor's office. He welcomed both a discussion on the merits of his reform initiatives and an audit of the university's expenditures.

As Governor DeSantis calls for an investigation, the future of the university's leadership and its financial practices remains in question. The outcome of this inquiry will determine the extent to which Sasse's spending decisions were justified and whether further reforms are needed within the institution.