Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a leading Republican candidate for the 2024 presidential election, may lose a key donor to former President Donald Trump. Real estate tycoon Robert Bigelow, who has been a staunch supporter of DeSantis, is now contemplating redirecting his financial backing to Trump due to concerns over DeSantis’s focus on conservatism and his stance on issues like abortion.
Realization of a Potential Strong Commander
In a recent interview with the Financial Times, Bigelow expressed his perspective on the 2024 presidential race. He highlighted the need for a strong commander with vast experience, especially in the face of international challenges. Bigelow specifically praised Trump, stating that he would lean toward the former president due to his perception of Trump as a “hell of an ass-kicker if he needed to be.”
Concerns Over DeSantis’s Shift Towards Conservatism
Bigelow’s wavering support for DeSantis stems from the Florida governor’s perceived shift towards conservatism, which contrasts with Trump’s more socially moderate approach. According to Bigelow, DeSantis’s focus on conservatism may not be the right direction for the party, and the former president appears to be a more attractive candidate.
Impact of Hamas Attack on Bigelow’s Decision
One pivotal moment that contributed to Bigelow’s reconsideration was Hamas’s attack on Israel last month. This incident led him to believe that the United States requires a “streetwise” leader like Trump to handle complex international situations.
Abortion Ban Controversy
Moreover, Bigelow criticized DeSantis for signing a bill in April that banned abortion in Florida after six weeks of pregnancy. Bigelow referred to this move as a “sham” and “condescending,” suggesting that it was an unrealistic and inconsiderate policy.
Trump’s Dominance in Polls
Recent polling data, including a CBS News poll, reaffirms Trump’s continued dominance within the Republican Party. The poll indicates that six in ten Republican voters back Trump, further boosting his appeal as a potential 2024 candidate.
DeSantis’s Campaign Challenges
Governor DeSantis, who officially entered the 2024 race in May, has faced various campaign hurdles. He has undergone campaign reorganizations, staff layoffs, and relentless attacks from Trump, all of which have posed challenges to his candidacy.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving landscape of the 2024 Republican primaries, Robert Bigelow’s potential shift from DeSantis to Trump signifies the fluidity of political support. As the election cycle progresses, the race for the Republican nomination remains highly competitive.
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