US Politics

Could a 2024 White House bid affect DeSantis’ gubernatorial run? Strategists say it could

Could a 2024 White House bid affect DeSantis' gubernatorial run? Strategists say it could

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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has been strategic in deflecting any 2024 presidential talk as he endeavors in his gubernatorial re-election campaign in the Sunshine State. Despite efforts to mitigate any conversations about his unconfirmed presidential run, talk surrounding his potentially joining former President Trump as vice president on the ticket or even running for president himself could sway votes in his home state this November. 

“I think he’s amassed a tremendous amount of financial resources, which goes a long way in a state as expensive as Florida with all its various media markets. And most importantly, he’s got a record he can run on. And I think [his team is] smart to continue to focus on that and to not let the 2024 chatter,” Colin Reed, Republican strategist and co-founder of South and Hill Strategies, told Fox News Digital. “Now, let’s not let that overwhelm or consume or become a distraction, because I think that has a risk of potentially turning voters off.”

DeSantis, a clear favorite in Florida, is expected to come head-to-head with Charlie Crist, a Democratic candidate. Crist, a former governor of Florida and longtime Congressman, is a well-recognized name in the pool of Democratic candidates and is expected to give DeSantis a run for his money come November. 

“In my opinion, considering that the number one reason somebody votes for a candidate across the board – whether it’s always Senate, House or president – is name recognition. And Charlie Crist has that recognition. He has a pretty good reputation in Florida. I’m surprised the polls aren’t closer,” Leslie Marshall, Democratic strategist and Fox News contributor, told Fox News Digital. 

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DeSantis has been treading carefully to ensure voters know Florida remains his top priority as Election Day draws closer, according to Reed. Despite the fact it would be unprecedented and possibly detrimental to one’s campaign to announce a presidential run during another campaign, Reed says DeSantis 2024 talk is unavoidable. 

“Voters across the ideological spectrum don’t like the idea that they’re just being a platform for the next thing. So, I think he wise to do that,” Reed said. “So, some of his 2024 speculation and chatter is inevitable. But they have to navigate it very carefully. Take nothing for granted. They should. They remind voters of Florida why they…

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