As Monique Worrell prepares to reclaim her role as Orange-Osceola State Attorney following a decisive electoral victory, a new legal battle may be brewing.
Rumors of a grand jury investigation and a sealed executive order from Governor Ron DeSantis have sparked speculation about a potential effort to prevent her from retaking office.
Worrell, who was removed by DeSantis in August 2023, is scheduled to be sworn in on Tuesday after defeating DeSantis-appointee Andrew Bain in the November election, securing 57% of the vote.
Despite her victory, Worrell’s quiet appearance at the Polk County Courthouse on Friday, alongside legal counsel, has fueled concerns among her supporters and political allies.
Democratic Leaders Raise Concerns

Florida State Representative Anna Eskamani took to social media to allege that DeSantis might be attempting to disrupt Worrell’s return through a grand jury convened in Polk County.
“The timing is super suspicious as Worrell is set to be sworn in early next week,” Eskamani posted on Instagram.
She pointed to a Dec. 10 sealed executive order as potential evidence but acknowledged that the contents remain unclear.
A joint statement from Democratic members of the Orange County Legislative Delegation called the situation “deeply troubling,” explaining that any effort to impede Worrell’s return undermines the democratic process and disenfranchises voters.
Legal and Political Context
Governor DeSantis suspended Worrell in 2023, citing alleged incompetence and neglect of duty, particularly in prosecuting drug trafficking and firearms offenses.
Worrell and her supporters spent over a year contesting her removal through state and federal courts, only to have her appeals denied. Instead of pursuing a resolution through the Florida Senate, she opted to seek vindication at the ballot box.
The governor’s authority to suspend elected officials for felony charges could play a critical role if a grand jury issues an indictment.
Fifth Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson, a frequent appointee by DeSantis for high-profile cases in the region, was reportedly at the courthouse on Friday. His office has not confirmed whether he was involved in a grand jury proceeding related to Worrell.
Transition Challenges
Since the election, tensions have remained high. A leaked memo from Bain’s office declared he would not assist in the transition, arguing Worrell was ineligible to take office since DeSantis had not formally rescinded her suspension. Bain’s office later walked back the claim following public scrutiny.
Despite the uncertainty, Worrell remains focused on her upcoming swearing-in ceremony and resuming her duties.
“I look forward to putting back in place the programs, policies, and initiatives that led to the circuit’s lowest violent crime rate in years,” she stated.
What’s Next?
The sealed executive order and possible grand jury investigation leave the future of Worrell’s leadership in flux.
If an indictment arises, Florida law grants the governor authority to suspend officials charged with felonies, potentially prolonging the battle over the Orange-Osceola State Attorney’s Office.