University of Florida senior staffers racked up hundreds of thousands of dollars in travel costs after Sasse allowed them to work remotely

It wasn’t immediately clear who at UF approved each expense item.

It wasn’t immediately clear who at UF approved each expense item.

Ben Sasse defends ‘inappropriate spending’ during tenure as UF president

Some of Sasse’s hires filled new positions that didn’t exist before his presidency.

Sasse, who had been at UF less than two years, abruptly resigned in July, citing his wife’s health.

He said he also wanted to spend more time with his children.

A university spokesman, Steve Orlando, said Sasse did not ask for the pool to be built and provided no input over its design.

“If Dr. Sasse is confirmed, it will be an uphill battle to win over the university community.”

At one point, with the din rising outside, Sasse praised the group for chanting rhythmically so effectively.