Source: CNN Politics
Published 7:00 AM EST, Mon February 26, 2024
Read more: https://www.cnn.com/2024/02/26/politics ... index.htmlCNN — A month after ending his White House bid, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is already making moves toward his next one. DeSantis has made a concerted effort to keep in touch with the people who supported his presidential campaign, including donors and leaders in the early nominating states. Those close to him say he is actively considering how best to maintain his national profile and influence, including potential endorsements in congressional races. He is likely to start raising money for his political operation once again in the near future as well, one source with knowledge of the planning said.
He even popped up in South Carolina just days before the state’s primary for a curiously timed appearance that briefly sparked a flurry of confusion among advisers to former President Donald Trump, whom DeSantis endorsed but hasn’t spoken to since dropping out of the race. The appearance was ultimately unrelated to the contest between Trump and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley in the Palmetto State, which DeSantis brushed aside as outside his purview.
“I’m not following the back and forth,” he said of the primary race there. His recent moves appear distinctly aimed at keeping intact his political operation and his popularity with Republicans. For his part, DeSantis hasn’t denied he is considering another presidential campaign as soon as 2028. “I haven’t ruled anything out,” he said in a private conversation with supporters, according to multiple outlets that reviewed a leaked recording and confirmed to CNN by three individuals who listened to the call.
But DeSantis’ remarks on that call – which included criticisms of Trump and his team – also provoked a heated response from the former president’s advisers and allies. The public lashing served as a reminder to the Florida governor that his political future may yet rely on his standing in Trump’s world.