U.S. Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL) criticized the University of Florida Board of Trustees on Tuesday after they unanimously approved Dr. Santa J. Ono as the next president of the University of Florida (UF), saying he is "not sold" on the controversial hire.
"The @UF Board of Trustees has made a grave mistake," Stuebe said. "Today, Dr. Ono gave it his best “college try” walking back his woke past, claiming he’s now “evolved.” But I’m not sold."
Rep. Steube called the confirmation of Ono, who has come under scrutiny for past statements on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and other issues, "too important to gamble on convenient conversations."
Ono, who previously served as president at the University of Michigan, backtracked on many of his prior statements during yesterday's selection meeting. However, it has left some, including Steube, skeptical of UF's genuineness.
In addition, Gov. Ron DeSantis has made ridding DEI in Florida a priority.
"As the flagship university of a state that has led the way on truth and freedom, UF should be LEADING the fight against woke ideology, not coming around only when it’s politically convenient," Steube added.
So, could Ono be saying these things for another reason?
According to reports, Ono could earn up to $3 million per year. That could be a reason to change one's tune at the final hour.
While approved by the Board of Trustees, Ono still has one more hurdle to clear. His confirmation is predicated on ratification by the Florida Board of Governors, which oversees the State University System of Florida.
Steube is hoping the Board of Governors gives Ono one more look.
"This is a step in the wrong direction. I strongly urge the @SUS_Florida Board of Governors to reject his selection at next week's meeting," Steube continued. "Florida is watching."
