Florida politicians, including prominent Republicans, expressed outrage and confusion over a fast-tracked state purchase of 4 acres of sandy land in Destin for $83 million last month, raising questions about how the unusual deal bypassed typical safeguards for conservation buys.

Newly obtained public records provide an answer: The proposal that led to the purchase came from a lobbyist representing the property owner who stands to profit.

Rhett O’Doski hand-delivered an early version of the state budget language to the aide for Sen. Jay Trumbull, R-Panama City, in March, email records show.

$83 million for sandy Florida lot: Did GOP donations pay off for seller?

O’Doski represents Pointe Resort LLC, one of the two companies listed as owners of the property. Both are registered in c

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