Full Breakdown
Palm Beach Clerk Candidate Remains on Ballot Despite Child-Molestation Allegations
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Election Campaign Amid Criminal Charges
Former state legislator Michael Caruso, 68, was suspended from his appointed position as Palm Beach County clerk of the circuit court after the Florida Department of Law Enforcement arrested him in August on multiple child-molestation charges, including lewd or lascivious molestation, kidnapping, child abuse and luring a child. The allegations stem from a male relative who was under five at the time and a separate claim by a female who says she was molested at age four. Caruso pleaded not guilty and was released on a $160,000 bond after a judge noted weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Despite the arrest, Caruso has publicly affirmed his intention to remain on the November ballot for clerk and comptroller and to win the election.
Local GOP Endorsement and State Party Position
Palm Beach County Republican Party Chairman Carl Cascio said the county party is obligated by state law and party rules to support the nominated candidate, and that he was directed by the state party to select a replacement after Caruso’s arrest. Cascio noted that the county elections supervisor delayed printing ballots to give Republicans time to find a substitute, but Caruso declined to withdraw, leaving his name on the ballot. The state Republican Party, according to Cascio’s letter, stated it would not support Caruso’s reelection if he remained in the race, while the local party continued to list him in its voter guide.
Campaign Finance and Operations
Carrousel filings show Caruso’s campaign website is offline and that the campaign refunded two recent contributors and a data-vendor fee. Campaign expenditures included payments to his son for outreach and gas purchases. The clerk and comptroller position carries an annual salary of $219,778, according to state records.
Potential Outcomes and Interim Administration
If Caruso were to win in November, Governor Ron DeSantis—who appointed Caruso to the clerk’s post exactly one year before the arrest—could again suspend him. An interim clerk, Shannon Ramsey-Chessman, is currently serving in the office.
Timeline of Key Events
- One year before arrest: Governor DeSantis appoints Caruso as clerk.
- August: Caruso is arrested on child-molestation allegations; bond hearing held in late August.
- Following arrest: County GOP delays ballot printing; local party endorses Caruso despite state party’s reservations.
- November: Scheduled general election for clerk and comptroller.