"'We believe in education, not indoctrination': Governor Ron DeSantis, critical race theory, and anti-intellectualism in Florida".

This article analyzes Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' political campaign against critical race theory (CRT) and its broader contribution to anti-intellectualism, particularly within conservative Republican circles aligned with White Christian nationalism. Although CRT is not part of Florida’s public school curriculum, DeSantis has vigorously opposed its teaching, framing it as unpatriotic and divisive, while promoting censorship, ahistorical narratives, and the dismantling of progressive educational policies. The article situates DeSantis’ actions within a historical and political context of cultural wars and anti-intellectualism in American politics, highlighting how these efforts aim to preserve traditional social hierarchies and suppress alternative perspectives on race and history. It also discusses the implications of such policies on academic freedom, educational quality, and the representation of marginalized groups in school curricula.