Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has found himself on the losing side of a friendly wager following a dramatic college football championship clash. The Republican leader confirmed on Tuesday that he owes Indiana Governor Mike Braun a shipment of key lime pie and stone crabs after his favoured Miami Hurricanes fell to the Indiana Hoosiers.
A Costly Championship Wager
The bet was settled after Indiana secured a 27-21 victory over Miami in the national championship game, which took place on Monday night at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. Governor DeSantis had publicly backed his home state team, while Governor Braun naturally supported the Hoosiers.
Floridian Delicacies Heading North
Speaking at a news conference focused on nursing education, Governor DeSantis outlined his debt. He pledged to send authentic key lime pie alongside stone crabs sourced from the legendary Miami Beach restaurant, Joe's Stone Crab. These iconic Floridian treats are now destined for the Indiana state capital.
"I will be sending the key lime pie, as well as stone crabs from the famous Miami Beach eatery, Joe's Stone Crab, to the Indiana governor due to my losing wager," DeSantis stated, referencing the Miami Hurricanes' defeat.
What Could Have Been: A Taste of Indiana
The Florida governor revealed that the stakes were reciprocal. Had Miami emerged victorious, he would have been the recipient of traditional Indiana fare. Governor Braun had promised to send sugar cream pie, commonly known as Hoosier pie, along with pork tenderloin.
This exchange highlights the light-hearted tradition of political sports wagering, where local culinary specialties become the currency of friendly rivalry between states.
A Humorous Proposal for Delivery
With a characteristic touch of humour, Governor DeSantis quipped about a potential shortcut for delivering the goods. He suggested it might be more efficient to drop off the pie and crabs at Marco Island, a popular Florida vacation destination for Midwesterners.
"You know, honestly, half of Indiana is in Marco Island this time of year," DeSantis joked during the press briefing. "Can I just bring this stuff to Marco Island? It would be a lot easier for us."
Marco Island, a barrier island on Florida's southwest coast, is indeed a favoured winter retreat for many from the Midwest, often referred to as 'snowbirds'. His comment playfully acknowledged the seasonal migration patterns that see many Indiana residents enjoying Florida's warmer climate.
While the logistical details of the delivery remain to be finalised, the bet has been settled in spirit. This episode serves as a reminder of how collegiate sports can foster interstate camaraderie and cultural exchange, even between political figures, with local delicacies acting as the ultimate prize.
