Jacksonville, FL, December 9, 2025

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has issued an executive order designating the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Muslim Brotherhood as ‘foreign terrorist organizations.’ This decision prevents state agencies from engaging with these groups, leading to legal challenges from CAIR, which deems the move unconstitutional. The consequences of this order extend to businesses and organizations in Florida, prompting concerns over regulatory complexities and civil liberties.

Florida Governor’s Designation Sparks Controversy Over CAIR and Muslim Brotherhood

The implications of a recent executive order

Jacksonville, FL – On December 8, 2025, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis made headlines with his executive order that designates the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Muslim Brotherhood as “foreign terrorist organizations.” This bold move prohibits state agencies from entering into contracts, providing employment, or allocating funds to these groups or their affiliates. While Governor DeSantis’s decision has its supporters, it has ignited a significant firestorm of controversy, particularly because neither CAIR nor the Muslim Brotherhood is recognized as a foreign terrorist organization at the federal level.

The climate for businesses and organizations in Jacksonville and beyond is one of growing concern. This executive order could set a precedent that affects a wide range of entities operating within Florida’s economic landscape. Local entrepreneurs and businesses may find themselves navigating an increasingly complex regulatory environment that could hinder their operations and partnerships.

CAIR’s Legal Challenge

The response from CAIR and its Florida chapter was immediate, announcing their intention to sue Governor DeSantis. They claim the proclamation is “unconstitutional” and “defamatory,” suggesting it targets the organization due to its efforts in civil rights advocacy rather than any legitimate circumstances. This isn’t CAIR’s first legal battle concerning similar designations; they previously challenged Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s similar proclamation with arguments focusing on constitutional and legal grounds.

Understanding the Muslim Brotherhood

Founded nearly a century ago in Egypt, the Muslim Brotherhood operates as a global Islamist organization with an extensive network across several nations. While its leadership claims to have renounced violence and is committed to achieving its goals through democratic means, numerous autocratic governments, particularly in the Middle East, deem the group a potential threat. Notably, the U.S. federal government has not classified the Muslim Brotherhood as a foreign terrorist organization, making Florida’s state-level decision particularly intriguing.

Legal and Economic Implications of the Designation

The implications of Governor DeSantis’s executive order are potentially far-reaching. By directing state agencies to curb activities associated with CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood, Florida is stepping into complex legal territory. The designations raise questions regarding compliance with constitutional rights and the foundational principles of free association and expression. Supporters argue the move will enhance public safety and curtail any potential negative influence, while critics fear it could chill civil liberties and stifle legitimate advocacy.

A Broader Trend in Regulation

This executive order mirrors actions taken in other states, including Texas, and contributes to a growing trend among various states to reconsider the status of organizations that engage with certain international groups or ideologies. Such designations, particularly when not supported by federal approval or evidence of wrongdoing, spark a broader conversation about how states regulate organizations that operate within their borders. As entrepreneurs across Jacksonville consider the implications of this order, the focus remains on preserving their ability to thrive within a balanced regulatory framework.

Conclusion

The designation of CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organizations by Governor Ron DeSantis poses a complex challenge for Florida’s legal and economic landscape. As local businesses and organizations adjust to these changes, the outcomes of the ensuing legal battles will be critical in determining the future of similar measures across the U.S. Residents and business leaders alike are encouraged to stay informed and actively engage in discussions surrounding local governance and its impacts on economic growth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ Schema in JSON-LD Format

{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "FAQPage",
  "mainEntity": [
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "What did Florida Governor Ron DeSantis do on December 8, 2025?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "On December 8, 2025, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued an executive order designating the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Muslim Brotherhood as "foreign terrorist organizations." This action prohibits Florida state agencies from providing contracts, employment, or funds to these groups or their supporters. Notably, neither CAIR nor the Muslim Brotherhood is recognized as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. federal government."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "How did CAIR respond to the designation?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "In response to the designation, CAIR and its Florida chapter announced plans to sue Governor DeSantis, labeling the proclamation as "unconstitutional" and "defamatory." They accused the governor of prioritizing foreign interests over the people of Florida and targeting the organization due to its civil rights work. CAIR has previously challenged similar actions in other states, including Texas, where Governor Greg Abbott made a similar designation last month. In that instance, CAIR filed a lawsuit arguing that the designation violated the U.S. Constitution and lacked support in Texas law."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "What is the Muslim Brotherhood?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "Established in Egypt nearly a century ago, the Muslim Brotherhood is a global Islamist organization with branches worldwide. Its leaders claim to have renounced violence decades ago and seek to establish Islamic rule through elections and other peaceful means. However, critics, including autocratic governments across the Middle East, view it as a threat. The U.S. federal government has not designated the Muslim Brotherhood as a foreign terrorist organization."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "What are the implications of the designation?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "The executive order by Governor DeSantis directs Florida state agencies to prevent unlawful activities by CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood. This includes denying privileges or resources to individuals or entities providing material support to these organizations. The designation aligns with similar actions taken by other states, such as Texas, which has also labeled CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organizations. These state-level designations have raised legal questions, as the U.S. federal government has not classified these groups as terrorist organizations."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "What is the current status of the situation?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "The designation of CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organizations by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has sparked significant controversy and legal challenges. As the situation develops, it will be important to monitor the outcomes of the lawsuits and any further actions taken by state and federal authorities."
      }
    }
  ]
}

Key Features of the Designation

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Federal Judge Orders Closure of Controversial Florida Detention Center
Federal Court Orders Dismantling of Florida Immigration Detention Center
Funding Cuts Threaten Advanced Programs in Jacksonville Schools
Jacksonville City Councilman Proposes State-Focused Audit
Jacksonville Councilman Proposes Financial Audit for Transparency
Florida Senate Advances State Park Conservation Legislation
MoonPie Renames Florida to MoonPieTown
Jacksonville’s Hispanic Community Faces Immigration Challenges

Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER

The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.