Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is making waves in the political arena as he prepares to formally enter the 2024 presidential race. Sources familiar with his plans have indicated that DeSantis, a Republican, will file the necessary paperwork with the Federal Election Commission and is expected to announce his candidacy online next week, with a donor meeting scheduled in Miami.
The anticipation surrounding DeSantis’ entrance into the race is building, as his official kickoff event is tentatively planned to take place in Dunedin, his hometown, during the week of Memorial Day. Among the potential venues under consideration is a Little League baseball field, a symbolic choice that pays homage to DeSantis’ own childhood when he played for the Dunedin Little League team and even made a trip to the prestigious Little League World Series.
DeSantis has been positioning himself as a younger, more vibrant alternative to former President Donald Trump, whom he once supported. However, Trump wasted no time in launching attacks against DeSantis, accusing him of disloyalty for even considering running against him. The 76-year-old Trump, currently leading in the polls, has gone so far as to dub DeSantis “Ron DeSanctimonious” and emphasize their previous alliance.
Despite the fierce competition from Trump, DeSantis remains confident in his ability to secure the Republican nomination and ultimately win the presidency. He has been highlighting his accomplishments as governor, particularly his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, and emphasizing his conservative values. DeSantis has gained popularity among Republican voters for his proactive approach and refusal to be swayed by polls.
While Trump’s presidency was characterized by his ability to exert power and his firm stance on international relations, DeSantis is seen as a competent and popular leader who focuses on addressing the right issues. Many believe that DeSantis stands a strong chance of winning the presidency in 2024. However, concerns have been raised about his lack of experience in dealing with world leaders and navigating complex international affairs.
To bolster his campaign, DeSantis has been diligently ramping up his operation in recent weeks. His team has been hiring staffers and establishing an office space in Tallahassee, the capital of Florida. The governor has been actively engaging with donors and supporters, even directly addressing Trump in a call where he emphasized his electability and the urgent need for a positive alternative to President Joe Biden.
While DeSantis may currently trail behind Trump in the polls, his supporters remain optimistic about his chances. A recent ABC News/Washington Post poll indicated that although Trump enjoys higher levels of support among Republicans and GOP-leaning independents, a majority of voters expressed satisfaction with either Trump or DeSantis as the potential presidential nominee.
As DeSantis prepares to officially enter the race, the Republican Party will soon face a critical choice between two prominent figures. DeSantis hopes to present himself as a viable option, aiming to highlight his strengths and appeal to voters who seek a new direction. On the other hand, Trump is determined to maintain his frontrunner status and consolidate his support base to secure the nomination. The coming months will be pivotal in determining the ultimate nominee and setting the stage for the highly anticipated 2024 presidential election.