Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has responded to a piece of legislation proposed by a Republican lawmaker in his state that would essentially criminalize certain blogs and bloggers, almost assuredly in violation of the Constitution’s First Amendment.

The measure would require bloggers who write about politics to register with the state, but the GOP governor made it clear after critics attempted to tie him to the legislation that he’s not at all in favor of it, the Daily Wire reported on Wednesday.

“Every person in the legislature can file bills,” DeSantis said of the measure filed by filed by state Sen. Jason Brodeur (R-Sanford). “I see these people filing bills and there are these articles with my face on the article saying that bloggers are going to have to register with the state and they’re attributing it to me.

“That’s not anything I’ve ever supported, I don’t support,” he continued. “I’ve been very clear about what we are doing. … I don’t control every single bill that has been filed.”

BREAKING: DeSantis disavows pay-to-play blogger bill

"120 of them, and however many in the Senate, they have independent agency to be able to do things. Like, I don't control every single bill." pic.twitter.com/90wB5bk2dO

— Florida’s Voice (@FLVoiceNews) March 7, 2023

A top former Republican lawmaker and strategist has widely condemned the measure while slamming Brodeur in the process.

“The idea that bloggers criticizing a politician should register with the government is insane,” former House Speaker Newt Gingrich (Georgia) wrote 0n Twitter. “It is an embarrassment that it is a Republican state legislator in Florida who introduced a bill to that effect. He should withdraw it immediately.”

The idea that bloggers criticizing a politician should register with the government is insane. it is an embarrassment that it is a Republican state legislator in Florida who introduced a bill to that effect. He should withdraw it immediately.

— Newt Gingrich (@newtgingrich) March 5, 2023

DeSantis made his comments following his yearly State of the State speech to Florida lawmakers and residents.

In the address, DeSantis emphasized Florida’s achievements, such as being the fastest-growing state in the country and leading in multiple categories, including new business formations, tourism, and education freedom. The state also ranks first in economic growth among large states, law enforcement recruitment, parental involvement in education, public higher education system, and space-related development, manufacturing, and flight, he said.

“But now’s not the time to rest on our laurels,” he said. “We have the opportunity and indeed the responsibility to swing for the fences so that we can ensure Florida remains number one.”

“Don’t worry about the chattering class,” DeSantis adding, appearing to make a reference to those who are speculating that he may run for the GOP presidential nomination in 2024. “Ignore all the background noise. Keep the compass set to true north. We will stand strong. We will hold the line. We won’t back down. And I can promise you this, you ain’t seen nothing yet.”