TALLAHASSEE, Florida — Ron DeSantis is not backing down. Despite a tumultuous presidential campaign, the Florida governor remains undeterred in his ambition to secure the White House. With Ohio Senator JD Vance positioned as former President Donald Trump’s running mate, DeSantis’ path to future presidential aspirations faces new challenges.
DeSantis’ 2028 Prospects
Governor DeSantis is expected to make another bid for the presidency, even if the GOP ticket of Trump and Vance wins in November. However, several prominent Republicans have noted the potential hurdles DeSantis might encounter if he runs against Vance. Both politicians share similar backgrounds: Ivy League law degrees, military service, and a focus on family values. Yet, in 2028, Vance could be vice president, while DeSantis would be two years removed from office.
Strategic Moves and Continued Influence
During the recent Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, DeSantis and his allies were active in positioning him for a political future beyond his gubernatorial term. The political committee Restore Our Nation (RON), rebranded from DeSantis’ former presidential campaign, encouraged supporters to donate and highlighted DeSantis’ prime-time speech.
DeSantis emphasized his conservative credentials in various appearances, including addressing the Republican Party of Florida, Moms for Liberty, and speaking at a luncheon of Iowa Republicans. His continued presence in fundraising and political events underscores his determination to remain influential within the GOP.
Challenges Ahead
Despite his assertive stance, DeSantis’ path to the presidency is less clear now than it was two years ago. His significant achievements, including a decisive victory in the 2022 midterms and the transformation of Florida into a conservative policy hub, might not be enough. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich highlighted the advantage of a vice president running for the presidency, noting the “psychological advantages” of standing next to the president for an extended period.
DeSantis’ Legacy and Potential Obstacles
DeSantis faces several challenges, including the potential approval of amendments on the November ballot that guarantee access to abortion and allow the use of recreational marijuana, both of which he opposes. Additionally, his term-limited governorship ends in early 2027, leaving him without an official platform for two years before a potential 2028 presidential run.
Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried, a longtime critic, claimed DeSantis has “no path” forward. However, DeSantis supporters argue that Vance’s potential vice presidency doesn’t guarantee his future nomination. They point to former vice presidents who did not succeed in securing the presidency.
A Path Forward
Former Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker suggested that DeSantis could still have a future in politics, urging him to stay active and help Trump get elected in the current cycle. Walker emphasized DeSantis’ appeal as a “doer,” a quality admired by many Republicans.
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