Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced on Tuesday the issuance of an investigative subpoena directed at the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). This action aims to investigate whether the organization and its Florida chapters received financial contributions from foreign sources deemed concerning, alongside checking compliance with state fundraising transparency regulations.
Uthmeier explained in a video shared on social media that the subpoena falls under Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act, as well as laws that govern fundraising activities. He emphasized that “Floridians who contribute to organizations within our state deserve transparency regarding the origins and usage of their donations.”
He further elaborated, stating, “We are investigating whether DSA has taken in contributions or help from foreign sources of concern, including regimes in Cuba and China. We also seek to determine whether their fundraising efforts from Floridian donors have been thoroughly transparent and lawful.” This scrutiny particularly pertains to DSA delegations visiting Cuba and China, where members engaged with government officials and solicited funds for related travel.
Uthmeier noted, “Our laws strictly prohibit accepting contributions from problematic foreign sources. This subpoena aims to gather necessary documents to ascertain compliance. We remain committed to enforcing the law and preventing foreign adversaries from infiltrating Florida through nonprofit fundraising avenues.”
Today my office issued a subpoena to the Democratic Socialists of America. We’re examining foreign contributions—including from Cuba and China—tied to their delegations and travel fund solicitations.
FL law requires transparency. We will hold those who break the law accountable. pic.twitter.com/Xu8MUoDwZb
— Attorney General James Uthmeier (@AGJamesUthmeier) November 10, 2026
The investigation centers on DSA’s journeys to Cuba and China, alluding to a March convoy where DSA members provided medical supplies and held discussions with Cuban authorities. It also references planned delegations for October 2025.
This situation is also under a separate federal investigation.
Investigators are examining solicitations for significant funding aimed at these trips and chapter activities to ensure compliance with financial disclosure regulations.
Florida laws, particularly those effective since mid-2025, prohibit organizations soliciting donations from Florida residents from receiving contributions or benefits from “foreign sources of concern,” which include entities from countries like Cuba and China. Violation of these regulations could incur serious civil and criminal repercussions.
Uthmeier’s office previously enacted similar authorities in looking into the Southern Poverty Law Center’s fundraising methods.
Communications Director Priscilla Yeverino of DSA acknowledged awareness of the subpoena but declined to provide further comment at this point. This development unfolds shortly after the recent midterm elections, where a DSA-supported candidate achieved a historic win in the Florida Legislature.
Uthmeier, a Republican, was also elected as attorney general during these elections. No specific individuals have been mentioned as targets of this inquiry, and the subpoena does not specifically request documents for compliance assessment.
Currently, DSA chapters are active in various cities across Florida, including Miami, Jacksonville, and Orlando.
