DeSantis security costs jump to $8M amid presidential bid

Florida spent $8M protecting DeSantis in 2022-2023, up from $5.5M the prior year.
The increase coincides with DeSantis' book promotion, rallies, reelection campaign, and presidential launch.
Most of the $8M went to salaried employees and travel expenses for the governor.
Costs also rose for protecting visiting dignitaries, totaling $457,000 this year.
The spike in security spending far exceeds the $2.5M spent protecting former Gov. Rick Scott.