DeSantis rejects Trump’s offer as running mate.

Gov. Ron DeSantis: I’m a Leader, Not a No. 2 Guy

During a recent podcast, Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-Fla.) made it clear that he has no plans to join former President Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential bid if he loses his own campaign. “I don’t think I’m a No. 2 guy. I think I’m a leader, governor of Florida. I’ve accomplished a lot,” said DeSantis. He believes he can make a greater impact as governor than as vice president, a role he feels lacks authority.

Trailing Behind Trump in the Polls

According to an aggregate of polls, DeSantis is currently trailing Trump by more than 30 percent as of July 11. Recent polls show Trump with 52.6 percent support, while DeSantis has only 21 percent. Other candidates have even less support. Despite these numbers, DeSantis stated that he would support the Republican nominee, should Trump win.

Differences in Policies

DeSantis also highlighted some policy differences between himself and Trump. He criticized Trump for relying too heavily on Dr. Anthony Fauci, former chief of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. DeSantis believes Fauci did significant damage to the country and would have fired him. He also expressed dissatisfaction with Trump’s response to COVID-19, calling it a “disaster.” On the issue of immigration, DeSantis claimed he would handle the border wall better, using drones and military force to combat drug cartels.

Looking Ahead to the Nomination

While DeSantis declined to reveal his potential vice presidential pick, he ruled out Democratic challenger Robert F. Kennedy Jr. However, he acknowledged areas of agreement with Kennedy, despite their overall ideological differences. DeSantis has faced criticism from fellow Republicans for his campaign’s lack of progress in the polls. However, his spokesperson remains optimistic, believing that DeSantis can still secure the nomination.

Despite the challenges, DeSantis remains determined. Steve Cortes, a former Trump adviser and spokesperson for DeSantis’ political action committee (PAC), admitted that they are currently behind in national polling. However, Cortes believes in DeSantis’ potential to secure the nomination and sees the campaign as an uphill battle worth fighting.