Trump aims to overshadow DeSantis in Florida.
Former President Donald Trump Targets Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in Presidential Race
Former President Donald Trump is making strategic moves in Florida, aiming to sideline Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) in the upcoming presidential race. Trump’s campaign has enlisted the help of key Republican operatives, including some who previously worked for DeSantis.
One notable hire is Brian Hughes, a seasoned Republican operative, who has been appointed as the Florida director for Trump’s campaign. Hughes has past ties to DeSantis, having worked on his initial congressional campaign in 2012. However, he has not been involved in any of DeSantis’s subsequent campaigns. Hughes is not the only former DeSantis ally to join Trump’s team.
Trump’s Team Gains Support from DeSantis’s Former Allies
Susie Wiles, one of Trump’s top Florida advisers, previously worked for DeSantis and played a crucial role in his successful bid for governor in 2018. However, a falling out occurred between Wiles and DeSantis when she joined Trump’s team in 2020. Allegations were made that Wiles leaked information detrimental to DeSantis, causing a strain in their relationship.
Trump’s campaign has conducted extensive research on DeSantis, recognizing him as the primary contender for the Republican nomination. To further unsettle DeSantis, Trump plans to attend the Iowa State Fair with a group of influential Florida guests. These guests include nine Florida Republicans who endorsed Trump for president, snubbing DeSantis in the process. The presence of these lawmakers alongside Trump is expected to divert media attention from DeSantis’s messaging during the state fair.
DeSantis’s Strained Relationships with GOP Colleagues
Some members of the House delegation who previously served alongside DeSantis have expressed dissatisfaction with his leadership style. They describe him as a loner who failed to build strong relationships during his time in Congress. Despite hopes of establishing a connection with Florida’s governor after his election, many lawmakers have been disappointed by DeSantis’s lack of engagement.
One anonymous Florida Republican, who endorsed Trump, described DeSantis as “transactional” and solely focused on his own interests. Aides working with Republicans in the delegation have also reported difficulties in reaching DeSantis to discuss important matters in their districts.
On the other hand, these lawmakers contrast their experiences with DeSantis by highlighting Trump’s attentiveness. Congressman Greg Steube recalled how Trump personally reached out to him while he was in the ICU after an accident, demonstrating a level of care and support that he had not experienced from DeSantis.
Florida Republicans Remain Divided
While some Florida Republicans have taken sides, others have chosen to remain neutral. Florida Republican Party Chairman Christian Ziegler has praised both Trump and DeSantis, while Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott have refrained from endorsing either candidate.
Florida-based GOP strategist Ford O’Connell predicts that the Trump campaign will continue to target former DeSantis allies, potentially leading to more defections in DeSantis’s own backyard. O’Connell suggests that freezing out DeSantis is a deliberate strategy employed by Trump’s team.
Trump Maintains Strong Lead in Republican Nomination Race
Recent polls indicate that Trump remains the frontrunner in the 2024 Republican nomination race, both nationally and in Iowa. A New York Times-Siena College poll shows Trump with 44% support among Iowa Republicans, while DeSantis trails at 20%, creating a significant 24-point gap. Other rivals are polling in the single digits. Trump frequently highlights his strong poll numbers and substantial advantage over DeSantis during his campaign appearances.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Now loading...