The Trump administration’s newly unveiled offshore drilling proposal has ignited an unexpected clash with some of the president’s staunchest Republican supporters in Florida, exposing a rare fracture in what has been one of the nation’s most reliably conservative coalitions.
The controversy erupted Thursday when the Department of Interior released maps detailing potential new offshore oil drilling sites in the Gulf of Mexico.
The plan immediately drew sharp criticism from Florida’s Republican leadership, who warned that expanding drilling operations could threaten the state’s pristine coastlines and vital tourism economy.
Sen. Ashley Moody (R-FL) expressed immediate alarm over the proposal in a statement posted to social media.
“The new maps released today by @SecretaryBurgum and @Interior outlining potential new offshore oil drilling sites in the Gulf of America are HIGHLY concerning—and we will be engaging directly with the department on this issue,” Moody wrote.
She emphasized the economic and cultural significance of Florida’s coastal resources.
“Preserving our state’s natural beauty is deeply important to the millions who call the Sunshine State home, our visitors, and those whose livelihoods depend on tourism,” Moody stated.
Gov. Ron DeSantis’ office joined the chorus of opposition, pointing to Trump’s own previous position on the matter. The governor’s spokesperson, Molly Best, issued a statement highlighting the administration’s apparent reversal from its earlier stance.
“Our Administration supports the 2020 Presidential Memorandum and urges the Department of Interior to reconsider and to conform to the 2020 Trump Administration policy,” Best said, according to The Hill, referencing Trump’s first-term decision to protect Florida’s coastline.
The disagreement represents a significant political development. Trump established Florida as his primary residence in 2019 when he relocated to his Mar-a-Lago estate on the Atlantic coast.
The state has transformed from a battleground into a Republican stronghold, making the current friction particularly noteworthy.
The administration’s drilling initiative extends beyond Florida, proposing to expand offshore operations in multiple regions including California and the Gulf.
While California’s opposition stems largely from political differences, Florida’s resistance comes from within the Republican coalition itself.
Sen. Rick Scott made his position clear through online statements, calling for the restoration of the previous policy.
“Florida’s beautiful beaches and coastal waters are so important to our state’s economy, environment, and military community,” Scott wrote.
He noted his prior collaboration with Trump to establish the moratorium, adding, “I have been speaking to @SecretaryBurgum and made my expectations clear that this moratorium must remain in place, and that in any plan, Florida’s coasts must remain off the table for oil drilling.”
Erik Milito, president of the National Ocean Industries Association, articulated the industry perspective. “Exploring nearby areas is not only smart policy, it can be a smart investment decision,” Milito told The Hill.
“It keeps the region attractive for capital, extends its productive life, and leverages the strengths that have made the Gulf one of the world’s most successful offshore basins.”
