Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a month after his withdrawal from the presidential race, is already strategizing for his next political move. DeSantis has been actively engaging with his supporters, including donors and leaders from early nominating states, in an effort to maintain his national profile and influence.
Insiders reveal that DeSantis is contemplating potential endorsements in congressional races and is expected to resume fundraising for his political operation soon. His recent appearance in South Carolina, days before the state’s primary, sparked speculation and confusion among former President Donald Trump’s advisers. However, DeSantis clarified that his visit was unrelated to the contest between Trump and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley.
DeSantis’s recent actions suggest a deliberate attempt to preserve his political operation and popularity among Republicans. He has not denied the possibility of another presidential campaign, potentially as early as 2028. His remarks during a private conversation with supporters, which included criticisms of Trump and his team, have elicited strong reactions from Trump’s advisers and allies.
DeSantis’s political future may still hinge on his standing within Trump’s sphere of influence. However, he is determined to remain a significant figure within the GOP, regardless of Trump’s fate. He has been experimenting with new strategies to expand his following, such as posting self-recorded videos online and leading a national campaign for federal term limits via constitutional amendment.
DeSantis is also expected to reestablish a state political committee in Florida that can raise unlimited funds. This was the same strategy he used to generate the $83 million seed money for the super PAC that supported his unsuccessful presidential campaign. DeSantis and his wife Casey have been personally reaching out to many of his donors, a move that could help keep his supporters engaged as he plans his next steps.
Despite his future plans, DeSantis has noticeably distanced himself from the current presidential race. He has not reached out to Trump since his withdrawal from the race and has expressed concerns about Trump’s viability and the lack of GOP enthusiasm for a Trump-Biden rematch this November.
DeSantis’s recent remarks criticizing Trump’s running mate search and accusing conservative media of pandering to the former president have been interpreted as a swipe at both Trump and his top aides. These comments have drawn criticism from Trump’s advisers, who have taken to social media to attack DeSantis.
DeSantis’s decision to exit the race and endorse Trump was seen by Trump’s inner circle as a sign of gracious defeat. However, DeSantis’s recent comments and actions have raised questions about his political future and his relationship with Trump.
Despite the controversy, DeSantis’s allies have downplayed his recent remarks. They view his decision to exit the race as a sign of his commitment to the right reasons and believe that this will bode well for his future political endeavors.
DeSantis has privately told advisers that he stands by his decision to exit the race and support Trump. However, he has yet to acknowledge his own shortcomings as a candidate and the changes he may need to make before running again. As he navigates his political future, DeSantis walks a fine line between protecting his political future and risking it by clashing with Trump.
Contributor: Kit Maher, CNN