Ron DeSantis(@GovRonDeSantis):Today, we unveiled a new statue of Juan Ponce de Leon at Florida's Capitol, honoring the explorer whose arrival in 1513 marked the beginning of Florida's written history and gave our state its name: La Florida. Florida's story began long before statehood or even at America's founding—it stretches back more than five centuries and helped shape the nation we know today. As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Florida is leading the way by preserving and celebrating our history. While others tear down monuments and diminish our heritage, we are honoring the men and women who helped forge our civilization and teaching the next generation to take pride in our state's unique role in the American story.

2026.07.17 17:43

Today, we unveiled a new statue of Juan Ponce de Leon at Florida's Capitol, honoring the explorer whose arrival in 1513 marked the beginning of Florida's written history and gave our state its name: La Florida. Florida's story began long before statehood or even at America's founding—it stretches back more than five centuries and helped shape the nation we know today. As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Florida is leading the way by preserving and celebrating our history. While others tear down monuments and diminish our heritage, we are honoring the men and women who helped forge our civilization and teaching the next generation to take pride in our state's unique role in the American story.