Mike Caruso remains in Palm Beach County race despite felony charges

Mike Caruso, the suspended Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller, has announced he intends to continue his campaign for the office in the November election despite facing felony charges. Caruso, who was appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis in August 2025, was arrested in August on five felony counts, including kidnapping, child abuse, and lewd or lascivious molestation involving a young male relative. He has pleaded not guilty to the allegations.

The Republican Party of Florida has officially withdrawn its support for Caruso, with Chairman Evan Power stating that the local party was asked to select a replacement. However, the Palm Beach County Republican Party has listed Caruso as its nominee in its voter guide and has not issued a formal statement distancing itself from him. Local party leadership noted that Caruso is currently the county’s only Republican constitutional officer.

Following his arrest, Governor DeSantis suspended Caruso from his position. The case is being investigated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, with investigators alleging the conduct occurred between late 2024 and August 2025.