Note: This article may contain commentary reflecting the author’s opinion.

In Florida, GOP Gov. Ron DeSantis is making significant moves to secure elections throughout his state.

The Republican announced on Wednesday he is appointing Peter Antonacci as Director of Election Crimes and Security.

Antonacci’s mandate is to help ensure all Florida elections are free and fair and devoid of fraud, to the best extent possible.

In April, an election security and accuracy bill was sent to the Governor’s desk and he signed it. Senate Bill 524 created “The Office of Election Crimes and Security,” which Antonacci is set to lead. It also established more substantial penalties for election crimes and ensured voter rolls are updated every year.

DeSantis, who is being touted as a potential 2024 presidential candidate, had this to say regarding the appointment:

“Peter Antonacci has dedicated his career to serving the state of Florida. I am confident he will lead the Office of Election Crimes and Security with integrity and ensure that Florida’s elections are the most secure in the nation.”

DeSantis’ move to help ensure upcoming elections are secure is not surprising given his broader conservative agenda; he has been involved in pushing for election-related remedies in Florida for some time.

In a press release from the Florida Government, Secretary of State Cory Byrd applauded the Governor’s appointment saying, “In Florida, our freedoms and rights are protected by the rule of law and our elections are no different. Judge Antonacci’s formidable knowledge of Florida election law and his experience as a Supervisor of Elections will ensure that our laws are enforced and that voters have confidence in our elections.”

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd also commented on the move.

“I applaud the Florida Legislature and Governor Ron DeSantis for creating the Florida Office of Election Crimes and Security to help ensure the integrity of our elections. Having confidence that when we cast our vote, it is counted fairly, is critical to our representative democracy,” Judd said. “I’ve known Peter Antonacci for many years and he is ethical, hardworking, and committed to acting with integrity. He will call balls and strikes. I trust him to make decisions that will strengthen our right to vote. Peter is the right person at the right time for this very important position.”

Florida continues working hard to ensure election integrity and is standing up for freedom in the process.

More states are likely to follow suit in the weeks and months ahead as the nation prepares for the midterm elections this November.