In a recent development, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has expressed reservations about endorsing President Donald Trump's preferred candidate, Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., as his potential successor.
The Governor also addressed the circulating speculation about his wife, Casey DeSantis, possibly entering the gubernatorial race next year.
According to Fox News, Donalds has yet to officially declare his intention to run for the governorship in the 2026 elections. However, Trump has already expressed his full endorsement for Donalds on his TRUTH Social platform, should he decide to run. Concurrently, rumors have been swirling about DeSantis considering the possibility of his wife's candidacy.
During a press conference in Tampa, where he discussed the establishment of Florida's own Department of Government Efficiency, DeSantis refrained from endorsing Donalds' potential gubernatorial bid. He emphasized the need for congressmen to focus on implementing Trump's agenda, rather than diverting their attention to campaigning.
"Donald Trump just got into office. I want these congressmen focused on enacting his agenda," DeSantis stated. He expressed his dissatisfaction with the current lack of progress, particularly in implementing Trump's executive orders. He also voiced his concern about the potential impact of campaigning on the narrow majority, which could lead to missed votes.
DeSantis highlighted the victories achieved in Florida and stressed the need for similar successes at the national level. He pointed out that Donalds, despite being a prominent figure, has not been involved in any of the state's victories. He urged Donalds to deliver results, just as they have been doing for the people of Florida.
The Florida Governor also revealed his fundraising plans for the 2026 race, expressing his desire for a candidate who can continue and build upon the success they've had in Florida. He warned against complacency, stating, "I think a lot of people think somehow the battles been won, and you dont have to worry about it. We could revert very quickly. That could happen. 100%."
When questioned about his wife's potential candidacy, DeSantis did not provide a definitive answer. However, he praised her political savvy and commitment to conservative principles. He expressed confidence in her ability to outperform him, citing her "intestinal fortitude and the dedication to conservative principles."
DeSantis also shared an anecdote about the late American broadcaster Rush Limbaugh, who once told him, "The only person I would rather have as my governor than you, is her."
Trump's endorsement of Donalds was made public on his social media platform, where he wrote, "Byron Donalds would be a truly Great and Powerful Governor for Florida and, should he decide to run, will have my Complete and Total Endorsement. RUN, BYRON, RUN!" Donalds responded positively, sharing a screenshot of the message and expressing his commitment to working with Trump to "Keep Florida Great."
Donalds, while attending the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), did not officially announce his gubernatorial bid. However, he hinted at an upcoming announcement, describing the past 12 hours as "interesting" and urging his followers to "stay tuned."
As the political landscape in Florida continues to evolve, the question remains: who will step up to continue the conservative legacy of Governor DeSantis? Whether it's Donalds, Casey DeSantis, or another candidate, the future of Florida's leadership is a topic of keen interest and speculation.
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