Trump’s Embrace Of DeSantis Fuels Rumors About Gov’s Next Move
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is set to join President-elect Donald Trump at the Army-Navy game on Saturday, fueling speculation about his future role in Trump’s administration and the decision regarding a vacant Senate seat.
“DeSantis has rarely been seen with Trump since his unsuccessful bid in the GOP primary, during which Trump nicknamed him ‘DeSanctimonious.’ However, their rivalry appears to be a thing of the past,” The Washington Times reported. “DeSantis is now a contender for a Cabinet position in Trump’s administration and is under pressure to appoint the president-elect’s daughter-in-law to fill the Senate seat left open by Marco Rubio’s move to Secretary of State.”
The two will meet at Northwest Stadium in Landover, home of the Washington Commanders, in what promises to be a closely watched reunion.
“They actually have a pretty good working relationship now,” said Will Chamberlain, a former advisor to DeSantis’ presidential campaign. “Even though there is still hostility between Trump World and DeSantis World, I think Trump and DeSantis have totally buried the hatchet and get along very well personally.”
Ed Rollins, a GOP strategist who supported DeSantis during his brief presidential run, added, “It’s a high-profile moment. Trump is assembling a team and wants influential figures. If he can bring DeSantis on board and present them as allies, it’s a win for both.”
DeSantis has gained influence within Trump’s circle, particularly after the president-elect selected Rubio to serve as secretary of state. By Florida law, DeSantis must appoint someone to fill Rubio’s Senate seat for the remaining two years of his term.
Trump’s camp has shown interest in Lara Trump, a Florida resident and co-chair of the Republican National Committee, to take the position. She is married to Eric Trump and is reportedly considering applying for the role.
However, DeSantis has not publicly addressed Trump’s preferences and is also weighing Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody as a potential appointee. Sources close to the situation indicate that Trump’s team has not actively pressured DeSantis on the matter.
In addition, Trump has reached out to DeSantis about possibly becoming secretary of defense if Pete Hegseth, the current nominee, fails to secure Senate confirmation. Hegseth has faced anonymous accusations of impropriety, raising doubts about his confirmation.
DeSantis’ second term as governor will end in early 2027, and he is likely positioning himself for a significant role in politics thereafter. He is widely expected to consider a run for the GOP presidential nomination in 2028.
However, he could face competition from figures like J.D. Vance, who will have served as Trump’s vice president for four years by then. Although vice presidents often secure endorsements, Rollins pointed out that recent history hasn’t been kind to them. “It’s not been a good place for vice presidents of late,” he said.
Without a high-profile position post-governorship, DeSantis risks losing relevance within GOP circles. However, his Florida Freedom Fund, which has raised substantial funds for conservative candidates, ensures he will maintain some influence.
“Both DeSantis and Trump are going to benefit from a stronger relationship, whether the governor stays in Florida or joins the administration,” said Florida GOP strategist Jamie Miller. “At the end of the day, it’s Trump’s team, and they’ll be stronger together.”