In a recent conversation with his supporters, Ron DeSantis, the Governor of Florida and former GOP primary candidate, expressed his disinterest in being the Vice President to Donald Trump, the 2024 GOP frontrunner.
He also hinted at a possible presidential run in 2028.
As reported by the New York Times, DeSantis stated that it would be a "mistake" for Trump to engage in "identity politics" while choosing his Vice President. When questioned about his potential candidacy in the 2028 elections during the call, which lasted over 30 minutes, DeSantis responded, "I havent ruled anything out."
DeSantis voiced his concerns about "all the baggage Trump has," which he believes could be problematic for Republicans in the upcoming elections. However, he also mentioned that Biden would be "the gift that keeps on giving."
Despite his withdrawal from the primary race in January, DeSantis expressed no regrets about his decision to run. However, he did express frustration about the race becoming an "incumbent race." He commented on Trump's situation during the race, stating, "The dynamics of the race were, he kept getting indicted, and he drew more support out of sympathy for that."
DeSantis also speculated on the outcome of the race if it had been between "eight, 10 Republicans who, who had never obviously been president, unlike Trump," suggesting that he could have emerged victorious.
In the call, DeSantis criticized Trump for failing to fulfill many of his 2016 campaign promises. He said, "I was in Congress the first two years when Trump was President. I mean, we didnt really do what we said we would do. You didnt see any major immigration, border or any type of legislation. You didnt see anything with repealing and replacing Obamacare. You didnt see anything about reining in the bureaucracy. I mean, it was pretty, pretty mundane stuff."
He expressed concern about the lack of accountability for Trump, especially if he were to return to the White House next year.
DeSantis also criticized the conservative media's role in the primary election, accusing them of providing "no accountability at all for anything Trump would say." He added, "Their business model just doesnt work if they offer any criticism of Trump." He further stated that this was "just an observation."
DeSantis concluded by referencing Trump's infamous comment about shooting someone on Fifth Avenue without losing a vote. He said, "Well, I think he could shoot someone on Fifth Avenue, and the conservative media wouldnt even report on it."
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