Ron DeSantis, previously seen as a formidable challenger to Donald Trump in the Republican primary, has withdrawn from the race.
This move underscores Trump’s enduring influence over the Republican Party. DeSantis, who is 45 years old, publicly endorsed Trump through a video on the social media platform X, signaling a significant shift in the party’s dynamics.
Read More: Bannon foresees Trump’s initial 100 days setting 50-year agenda
DeSantis’ early promise and subsequent decline
DeSantis was once considered a top candidate for the 2024 Republican nomination, thanks to his aggressive political style and staunch conservative views.
He even led several early polls against Trump in 2023. However, his campaign gradually lost momentum due to a mix of strategic missteps, his discomfort on the campaign trail, and Trump’s unwavering support base.
His exit from the race leaves former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Nikki Haley, as the remaining Republican contender with a remote chance of challenging Trump for the nomination.
DeSantis’ campaign struggles to win over Trump’s base, moderates
DeSantis struggled to appeal to Trump loyalists and those seeking a change from Trump’s leadership.
His failure to convincingly present himself as a preferable alternative to Trump led to a dilution of his support base.
Moreover, where DeSantis diverged from Trump’s policies, he often took even more conservative stances, such as signing a six-week abortion ban in Florida.
Policy differences and internal party conflicts
These moves alienated some moderate Republicans and donors, further weakening his campaign.
DeSantis’ policy decisions, including opposition to further U.S. military aid to Ukraine and punitive actions against the Walt Disney Co., were seen as unnecessarily divisive within the party.
His stance on these issues and the abortion law alienated vital supporters, including major donors like Robert Bigelow, who withdrew financial backing due to DeSantis’ hardline abortion stance.
Also Read: Senator Ted Cruz endorses Trump for 2024 GOP presidential nomination after Iowa caucus victory
DeSantis’ late campaign entry, early setbacks amid Trump’s rising support
DeSantis’ campaign faced challenges from the outset. Trump’s indictment in New York in March led to a surge in his support among Republicans, putting DeSantis at a disadvantage even before officially entering the race.
His delayed entry into the race left him vulnerable to Trump’s attacks, and technical glitches and a perceived lack of organization marred his initial campaign launch.
Campaign mismanagement and staff turnover
The DeSantis campaign suffered from overstaffing and rapid expenditure, leading to significant staff reductions and the replacement of his campaign manager, which fueled perceptions of internal disarray.
The campaign’s reliance on an external super PAC, Never Back Down, which could not directly coordinate with the campaign, further complicated matters.
Tensions between the campaign and the PAC, culminating in a series of high-profile departures from the PAC, added to the sense of chaos and ultimately contributed to the perception that DeSantis’ campaign was in turmoil.
Read Next:Trump sets record in Iowa caucus win, gives unifying victory speech
