Arr, here be four scurvy lessons from DeSantis' wretched presidential voyage, ye better heed 'em, mateys!
2024-01-22
Avast ye scallywags! Florida's Republican Governor, Ron DeSantis, be walkin' the plank, abandonin' his ship in the 2024 presidential race. Though some be sayin' it be a shock, truth be told, 'twas bound to happen. Now, let's delve into the treacherous waters of what went awry, me hearties!
Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley was proven right when Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dropped out of the 2024 presidential race. DeSantis had been bouncing between events in New Hampshire and South Carolina, showing a lack of confidence and a lack of plan. He was also trending toward a single-digit finish in the Granite State, far behind both Trump and Haley in the polls. The South Carolina primary was still a ways off, giving DeSantis little chance of a turnaround. The failure of DeSantis' campaign provides several lessons. Super PACs cannot compensate for a weak candidate or campaign team. Despite starting with $269 million, DeSantis only ended up with 9 delegates. While DeSantis had success in Florida's midterm elections and attracted support from demographics that had eluded Republicans, his success at the state level did not translate nationally. Additionally, DeSantis faced attacks from former President Donald Trump and struggled to connect with voters in New Hampshire. Ultimately, primary voters stuck with Trump as his numbers remained strong and Biden's popularity waned. Although DeSantis may have a future in politics, his quick endorsement of Trump was a strategic move to start the healing process. With DeSantis out of the race, Haley now has a clear shot at challenging Trump. With only two candidates left, Trump remains the frontrunner, but anything can happen when the voters have their say.