Former University of Florida President Ben Sasse addressed allegations regarding his use of university funds during his brief tenure, firmly defending the expenditures. In a post on the social media platform X, Sasse stated that the funding was directed toward significant new initiatives that he stands by, asserting that these were vital for much-needed reforms in higher education.

Sasse, who left his position as a Republican senator from Nebraska in 2023 to lead the university, resigned from his role in mid-July, citing his wife’s health concerns. His remarks come after a report from the Independent Florida Alligator, the university’s student newspaper, revealed that spending under his leadership had tripled. In response, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has called for an investigation into Sasse's use of university funds.

In his statement, Sasse emphasized that the expenditures were approved by the university's board of trustees, the system’s board of governors, and the university’s audit committee. He outlined several key initiatives funded during his presidency, including reforms to the core curriculum, partnerships with the space industry, and the authorization of K-12 charter programs across Florida. Sasse expressed pride in these initiatives, believing they would significantly benefit Floridians if implemented.

The increased spending reportedly included costly new hires, such as consulting firms and former Senate aides. While acknowledging these hires, Sasse defended them as necessary for carrying out his planned reforms. He likened his approach to that of a typical CEO bringing trusted colleagues from previous roles to help achieve organizational goals.

Sasse also noted his efforts to tighten the university's budget, citing his proposal to consolidate 200 academic programs, which he acknowledged was unpopular. His tenure also gained attention earlier in the year for eliminating the university’s diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, as well as shutting down its diversity office.

As discussions continue about the justification of these expenditures, Sasse indicated that he plans to provide a detailed memo to the governor’s office outlining his approach and welcomed both a debate on the merits of his reforms and an audit of the university’s spending.