The Libertarian Party of Florida strongly condemns the recent passage in the Florida House of Representatives of legislation that would allow state officials to officially designate certain groups or political organizations as “domestic terrorist organizations.”

Granting government the authority to label political groups as terrorists is a dangerous and historically proven path toward abuse. Such power invites selective enforcement, political retaliation, and the suppression of dissenting viewpoints. In a free society, the government does not get to decide which political organizations are legitimate and which are beyond the pale simply because those in power disapprove of their views.

Florida’s Constitution and the U.S. Constitution both protect the rights of free speech, association, and political participation. Allowing politicians or bureaucrats to assign the label of “terrorism” to domestic groups risks undermining those core liberties and turning legitimate political activity into a target for government intimidation.

History provides countless examples of governments misusing security powers to silence opposition. Libertarians believe Florida must not follow that path.

The Libertarian Party of Florida urges the Florida Senate to reject this legislation. Should the bill reach the Governor’s desk, we call on Governor Ron DeSantis to veto it and defend the constitutional liberties that Floridians expect their leaders to protect.

The proper role of government is to prosecute individuals who commit crimes, not to blacklist political organizations or empower the state to determine which voices are acceptable in the public square.

Liberty requires vigilance … especially when government seeks new tools to define its critics as enemies.

Matt Johnson
Chair
Libertarian Party of Florida