TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - The two top Republican legislators in Florida have both cast their endorsements for Ron DeSantis in the 2024 presidential election. House Speaker Paul Renner and Senate Leader Kathleen Passidomo are both supporting the Florida Governor over former President Donald Trump.
The nods from Renner and Passidomo are key pickups for DeSantis, who is largely lacking support from Florida legislators both in the U.S. Congress and the state legislature. As more and more Florida Republicans go to Trump, DeSantis has recently seen his lead in the Florida primary evaporate in recent polls. With today’s news he likely hopes to take back some of that ground.
“Gov. DeSantis has a proven record of delivering on the pro-family, pro-economic ideals that not only will keep Florida free but will be of critical importance in a 2024 presidential election,” Renner said in his statement.
“Gov. DeSantis is exactly the kind of leader we need for our country, and I look forward to supporting him for president,” added Passidomo.
Though DeSantis still hasn’t formally announced a run for president, all signs continue to suggest he will be running. The Governor is touring key campaign stops around the country, including the ultra-important leadoff caucus state of Iowa. He’s begun to criticize Trump more often, responding to a barrage of insults and detractions from his former ally. When the likely announcement occurs, DeSantis will enter an already large primary field, facing Trump as well as Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson and former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley.
Also of note, DeSantis will likely face another prominent Florida Republican if he enters the presidential race. Miami Mayor Francis X. Suarez has been heavily rumored this week to be leaning toward a run, with an announcement coming as soon as Memorial Day.
