DeSantis Embraces the Right in Re-Election Bid

“In closely divided Florida, gubernatorial candidates usually tack toward the middle in the general election after courting their party bases in the primary. Not Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis,” the Wall Street Journal reports.

“Last week, he sent two planes of migrants to Martha’s Vineyard, infuriating immigrant-rights groups, triggering lawsuits and garnering praise from some Republicans and conservative media outlets. Mr. DeSantis recently campaigned for conservative GOP candidates in Kansas and Pennsylvania while asserting that Florida has ‘gotten redder.’ His speeches often focus on critical race theory, school policies on gender issues and liberals, who he says are ‘trying to render the conservative half of the country second-class citizens.’”

“A decisive win in November—with support from some independents and other swing voters—could make him a formidable presidential candidate in 2024 should he decide to run. Falling short could weaken the argument made by some supporters that he is the most electable Republican on the national scene.”