In the ever-evolving landscape of Republican politics, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has emerged as a prominent figure with presidential aspirations. However, his journey to secure the top spot as a conservative alternative to former President Donald Trump has been met with both successes and setbacks.
On Wednesday, Chris Jankowski, the DeSantis-affiliated super PAC Never Back Down’s chief executive announced his resignation. Jankowski’s decision came as a surprise, raising questions about the future of the PAC and its impact on DeSantis’ presidential bid.
Simultaneously, a new super PAC called Fight Right was established, receiving a substantial $1 million contribution. This new group emerged as DeSantis and his wife expressed frustration with Never Back Down.
Read: Florida Gov. DeSantis Orders Flags At Half-Staff In Honor Of Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter
The creation of Fight Right presents a shifting dynamic within DeSantis’ support network, potentially influencing his path to the presidency.
Infighting and Disagreements
The departure of Chris Jankowski from Never Back Down was not without its reasons. Reports have surfaced regarding internal disagreements and infighting within the super PAC. During a budgeting discussion, tensions rose, leading to a heated argument among several members of the pro-DeSantis group.
These internal conflicts highlight the challenges faced by DeSantis’ team in maintaining a unified front. With the creation of Fight Right, it becomes essential for DeSantis to address these issues and ensure a cohesive strategy moving forward.
Never Back Down Ads and Controversy
Read: California Gov. Newsom’s PAC Hits Florida Gov. DeSantis With Attack Ad Ahead Of Debate
As the political landscape intensifies, advertisement campaigns play a crucial role in shaping public perception. Never Back Down faced controversy when ads targeting former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley over China came under scrutiny.
The governor and his wife, Casey DeSantis, expressed complaints about these specific advertisements.
The timing of the controversy, just before Thanksgiving, raises concerns about the effectiveness of Never Back Down and its ability to rally conservative donors. It also highlights the potential rise of Haley as a formidable contender to Trump in the upcoming primaries.
The Endorsement from Iowa
Despite the internal challenges faced by Never Back Down, Ron DeSantis received a significant boost in Iowa. Bob Vander Plaats, an influential conservative leader with substantial sway among evangelical Christians in the state, endorsed DeSantis. This endorsement marks a major triumph for the Florida governor and demonstrates his increasing strength within the Republican base.
However, DeSantis still lags behind Trump in national and statewide polling, suggesting the need for a concerted effort to reverse this trend.
The endorsement from Vander Plaats, coupled with DeSantis’ recent endorsements from Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds and others, may serve as a springboard for future success in the early nominating state.
DeSantis vs. Trump: The Battle for Support
Read: Trump Leading Biden In New National Poll, Florida Gov. DeSantis Trailing Trump By 51 Points
Ron DeSantis initially positioned himself as the primary conservative alternative to former President Donald Trump. However, Trump’s enduring popularity within the GOP has posed challenges for DeSantis’ presidential aspirations.
National and early state polls consistently show Trump leading the pack, leaving DeSantis with ground to make up.
Furthermore, former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley has made inroads in states like New Hampshire and South Carolina, presenting another obstacle for both DeSantis and Trump. Despite trailing Trump by double digits in these states, Haley’s emergence raises questions about the viability of a non-Trump alternative in the Republican primary.
DeSantis’ Strong Performance in Iowa
While DeSantis faces an uphill battle against Trump, his performance in Iowa offers a glimmer of hope.
According to RealClearPolitics’s polling average of Iowa, DeSantis polls in second place. This achievement showcases his appeal among Iowa voters and positions him as a contender in the early caucuses.
With the endorsements from influential figures like Bob Vander Plaats, DeSantis has the opportunity to build momentum and gain support in key states.
The Iowa caucus will serve as a crucial test for his presidential campaign and could potentially shift the dynamics of the race.
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