In a major blow to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former President Donald Trump has secured a significant home-state endorsement from Senator Rick Scott. The move has intensified the already heated race for the Republican presidential nomination, as DeSantis remains Trump’s primary rival. This development was discussed by panelists Mollie Hemingway, Vince Coglianese, and Philip Wegmann on a recent episode of the ‘Special Report.’
DeSantis’ campaign responded to the endorsement by highlighting the governor’s extensive support from state legislators in key early primary states such as Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina. Andrew Romeo, the communications director for DeSantis’ campaign, emphasized that the governor has worked closely with Florida elected officials to deliver impressive results for the conservative movement. Romeo expressed confidence in DeSantis’ ability to win his home state, citing Floridians’ desire for a leader who can bring effective and results-oriented leadership to Washington, similar to what he has provided in Florida.
Senator Rick Scott, who launched a challenge against Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell last year, is running for re-election in 2024 and has not ruled out a future bid for Senate Republican leader. Scott, a former health care executive and the Senate’s wealthiest member, has been viewed as a potential Republican presidential contender for the 2024 election. As chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC), Scott has made multiple visits to Iowa and New Hampshire, the first two states in the Republican presidential nominating calendar.
Despite speculation about his presidential aspirations, Scott has consistently stated that he plans to seek a second term in the Senate. He has maintained a distance from DeSantis, notably refraining from supporting the governor’s high-profile policy disputes with Disney. Scott has also taken a different approach from DeSantis when it comes to engaging with President Biden, having met with him during the aftermath of Hurricane Idalia in Florida.
Former President Trump is set to hold numerous events in Florida in the coming days, including a rally on the same night as the next Republican debate in Hialeah. This development adds further excitement and anticipation to the 2024 campaign trail. For the latest updates, exclusive interviews, and more political content, readers can visit the digital election hub on our website.
Brandon Gillespie, an associate editor at [publication], provides coverage and analysis of the 2024 campaign trail. Readers can follow him on Twitter at @brandon_cg.
