Rick Scott hit Bill Nelson on Facebook Friday for his unverified claims that Russia has infiltrated Florida’s election system.  Nelson claimed that the Russians had hacked Florida’s election system, but did not cite any actual evidence for the claim.  When pressed, Nelson stated that it was classified.

According to Gov. Scott, Florida Secretary of State Ken Detzner sent a letter to the US Senate Intelligence Committee asking for more information.  None has been provided.  Nelson claimed that the Trump administration is withholding information but still has no evidence for his salacious claim.  How Nelson even came across the supposed information is also unclear.  Nelson is in the toughest race of his life after 18 years in the Senate.

If the Russians have in fact compromised the Florida election system, then the intelligence community has a duty to disclose that information to the governor of Florida and the appropriate state officials.  If Nelson’s unverified claims have any merit, the government has a responsibility to help Florida identify the compromised areas and protect the voters of the state.

Bill Nelson is either lying or illegally releasing classified information in a press conference to meddle with the election.  Either way, his attempt to scare voters into thinking Russia is coming in on Gov. Scott’s side is backfiring.  Whether the 75 year old Democrat Senator is making stuff up or compromising national security for political gain, it’s a lose-lose for Nelson.