(CNN) Two of Florida's top Republicans on Thursday distanced themselves from President Donald Trump's false claim that Hurricane Maria did not kill nearly 3,000 people in Puerto Rico last year, despite an estimate accepted by the island's government.

Both Florida Gov. Rick Scott, who is running for Senate in the state, and former Rep. Ron DeSantis, who is running to succeed Scott, issued statements affirming their belief in the death count. Puerto Ricans are a key potential voting bloc in Florida's closely contested elections. Following the 2017 hurricane, thousands of Puerto Ricans were estimated to have moved to the state.

"I disagree with @POTUS," Scott tweeted. "An independent study said thousands were lost and Gov. Rosselló agreed."

I disagree with @POTUS-- an independent study said thousands were lost and Gov. Rosselló agreed. I've been to Puerto Rico 7 times & saw devastation firsthand. The loss of any life is tragic; the extent of lives lost as a result of Maria is heart wrenching. I'll continue to help PR — Rick Scott (@ScottforFlorida) September 13, 2018

He added: "I've been to Puerto Rico 7 times & saw devastation firsthand. The loss of any life is tragic; the extent of lives lost as a result of Maria is heart wrenching. I'll continue to help PR."

DeSantis' communications director echoed Scott's sentiment, telling reporters in a statement that the gubernatorial candidate "doesn't believe any loss of life has been inflated."

Read More