TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (CBS12) — A life-size statue of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis began melting shortly after it was unveiled in Tallahassee Tuesday, in a protest organized by environmental advocates over the state’s approach to climate change.
The installation, called “DENIAL,” was created by advertising agency Uncommon, climate advocacy group 350 Action and production company M ss ng P eces. Made from gallium, a metal that melts at about 85.6 degrees Fahrenheit, the statue was designed to melt in Florida’s heat, according to the creators.
Organizers say the installation criticizes Florida’s decision to remove references to climate change from state law. DeSantis signed the legislation in May 2024, calling it a “common-sense approach” to energy policy.
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The law removed climate change references from several state statutes, prohibited offshore and nearshore wind turbines, and supported expanded use of natural gas. The governor’s office also pointed to provisions involving nuclear reactor research, hydrogen-powered vehicles and electric grid security, according to the Associated Press.
DeSantis has also pushed back on claims linking climate change to stronger hurricanes, pointing to Florida’s history of powerful storms. Scientists say the relationship is complex, but research indicates a warming climate can contribute to heavier hurricane rainfall and faster storm intensification. Long-term trends in overall hurricane frequency and intensity remain less certain, in part because historical records are incomplete, according to a PolitiFact report.
The statue is part of a campaign encouraging voters to support candidates who prioritize climate action ahead of the midterm elections.