Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) released an advertisement titled "Results," which has received criticism over the appearance of Pastor Larry Jinks of the First Baptist Church of St. James City, Florida. In the advertisement, Jinks praises DeSantis for protecting the right of religious congregation, but Jinks’ appearance in the advertisements has drawn controversy over the anti-semitic views that he’s shared in the past.
In response to DeSantis' advertisement, Florida Rep. Charlie Crist (D) has called on DeSantis to condemn Jinks.
In response to an op-ed from the Jerusalem Post regarding the rebuilding of the temple, Jinks took to Facebook to share comments that received condemnation.
“It’s a shame that the Jews, who should know better, reject their own Messiah (who fulfilled everyone of their prophecies) still believe that they need sacrifices and the Temple to sacrifice them in,” Jinks said, adding that “nonetheless, because of their rejection they will move forward with that plan.”
The comments received widespread condemnation, so when Jinks appeared in the advertisement for DeSantis, Crist took issue with the appearance.
Taking to social media, Crist commented on Jinks' appearance, slamming Governor DeSantis and calling on the Florida Governor to condemn Jinks.
"Ron DeSantis's latest campaign ad features an anti-Semite," Crist said, expressing that "DeSantis has consistently refused to condemn hate or extremism, including the Nazis in our state waving flags with his name. Now, he's spending millions to elevate an anti-Semite with a history of hateful speech."
Ron DeSantis's latest campaign ad features an anti-Semite.
DeSantis has consistently refused to condemn hate or extremism, including the Nazis in our state waving flags with his name.
Now, he's spending millions to elevate an anti-Semite with a history of hateful speech.
— Charlie Crist (@CharlieCrist) September 19, 2022
Further commenting on the issue, Crist said that "Ron owes Florida’s Jewish communities an answer for his refusal to forcefully condemn these groups and make clear he does not want their support."
The advertisement features a number of individuals from different professions and sectors, thanking Governor DeSantis for the work that he's done in office.
The advertisement can be viewed here.
