Florida Gov. DeSantis says Andrew Tate and Tristan Tate 'not welcome' as legal battle unfolds in US court

Andrew and Tristan Tate have arrived in Florida after Romanian authorities lifted their travel restrictions, allowing them to leave the country despite ongoing legal proceedings. The influencer brothers, who were arrested in Romania three years ago on charges of human trafficking and sexual intercourse with a minor—allegations they deny—touched down at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport on Thursday.

However, their arrival was met with strong opposition from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who made it clear that the state had no role in their entry and that he does not welcome them.

“Florida is not a place where you’re welcome with that type of conduct,” DeSantis stated during a press conference, adding that he only learned of their arrival through the media.

Florida’s Attorney General James Uthmeier has since launched an inquiry into the situation, writing on X that “Florida has zero tolerance for human trafficking and violence against women.” He further emphasized that if any of the allegations against the Tates fall under Florida’s jurisdiction, legal action will be taken.

Speaking to reporters upon landing, Andrew Tate pushed back against the backlash, stating, “We live in a democratic society where it’s innocent until proven guilty. My brother and I are largely misunderstood. There’s a lot of opinions about us that go around on the internet. We have no criminal record anywhere on the planet.”

Tate’s legal team also responded to DeSantis' remarks, with their attorney Joseph McBride arguing that the brothers are “American citizens and victims in a very public defamation lawsuit litigated in Palm Beach Court.” He criticized DeSantis, calling his statements “disgraceful” and linking the governor’s comments to his political rivalry with Donald Trump.

The controversy surrounding the Tates has also reached the highest levels of government. When asked about the brothers' return to the US, President Donald Trump said, “I just know nothing about it. We’ll check it out.” Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is visiting the White House, noted that human trafficking is a major security risk and pledged to look into the case.

The Tate brothers are expected to return to Romania at the end of March to meet with prosecutors before traveling back to the US. Their lawyer claims they feel secure in America primarily because “Donald Trump is the President.”

However, critics—including a British attorney representing alleged victims—say their release from Romania has left accusers feeling “dismayed” and abandoned.

Despite the ongoing legal storm, the Tates appear determined to rebuild their presence in the US, setting the stage for further controversy and legal battles in the months to come.