Governor Ron DeSantis Celebrates Constitution Day By Unveiling Benjamin Franklin Statue in Franklin County as Florida Commemorates America250

APALACHICOLA, Fla.-Today, Governor Ron DeSantis celebrated the 238^th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution by unveiling a new statue of Benjamin Franklin in Franklin County, Florida-honoring one of America's most influential founding fathers. This statue is the latest feature in Florida's America250 commemorations.

"Benjamin Franklin was an American original," said Governor Ron DeSantis. "We as Americans are fortunate to have had a man like Franklin playing such a big role in the founding of our nation. As we prepare to celebrate our nation's 250^th anniversary next July, we must remember the vision, courage, and unyielding quest for liberty that inspired our founders. Statues like this symbolize our firm resolve to uphold the Constitution, to honor the legacy of our founders, and to embody the values of our nation's founding."

"It is a privilege to stand in Franklin County on Constitution Day as we honor Benjamin Franklin-a man whose wisdom, courage, and vision still shape America nearly 250 years after our founding," said Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins. "Here in Florida, we take pride in our constitutional legacy, rooted in independence and self-determination. Franklin's life reminds us that freedom is not inherited by chance but secured through civic responsibility and service. While some may seek to erase history, Florida chooses to honor it, ensuring future generations know both their rights and their duty to preserve our republic."

The event marked the second in a series of statue unveilings planned across Florida counties named for America's founders. Statues will also be installed in Washington, Hamilton, Madison, and Monroe Counties over the next year. A statue of Thomas Jefferson was unveiled in Jefferson County earlier this year.

Governor DeSantis underscored Benjamin Franklin's legacy as the quintessential American who embodied the spirit of American ingenuity. The Governor also emphasized Franklin's commitment to civic duty and his belief that an engaged and educated citizenry is the cornerstone of liberty in our republican system of government.

Under Governor DeSantis' leadership, Florida has made historic investments in civic education to ensure students understand and appreciate the nation's founding principles.

In 2021, the Governor signed legislation establishing the Civics Literacy Excellence Initiative, a $129 million program that has supported the expansion of civics curriculum at all grade levels and created the Civics Seal of Excellence Endorsement for Florida teachers. To date, more than 21,000 teachers have participated in the program, with over 3,700 more on the waitlist. The state has awarded nearly $60 million in teacher stipends to recognize their commitment to fostering civic literacy.

This year, Governor DeSantis signed Florida's Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget, which includes an additional $7.4 million to further expand civic literacy and debate programs across the state.

Florida's yearlong commemoration of America's semiquincentennial birthday celebration is ongoing. For more information about events or opportunities in Florida, visit America250FL.com.