Florida Gov Ron DeSantis trolled as he plans to raise at least $10M for Donald Trump
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is embarking on a multistate fundraising tour with the ambitious goal of raising at least $10 million for former President Donald Trump.
This marks quite a shift in the relationship between the two political figures, who were once bitter rivals in the Republican primary race.
DeSantis seeks to mend fences with Trump, eyes future presidential run
For months, the primary race between Trump and DeSantis was marred by acrimonious exchanges, with Trump frequently referring to DeSantis as “DeSanctimonious.” In contrast, DeSantis argued that Trump's political era had ended.
However, recent developments indicate that DeSantis is seeking to mend fences with Trump, potentially paving the way for his own political future.
“I think we believe Biden needs to be beaten, and the governor is willing to put the sword down,” a top DeSantis adviser told NBC News on condition of anonymity. “They have had several good conversations as recently as last week.”
DeSantis' fundraising efforts for Trump are set to kick off in July and continue through September, with events planned in key states like Texas, California, and Washington.
These states have been strategically chosen due to DeSantis’ already substantial donor networks established during his own presidential bid.
“It’s in places where there is existing infrastructure for stuff like this,” the DeSantis adviser remarked, noting the efficiency of tapping into pre-existing donor networks.
The funds raised will be channeled through Right for America, a pro-Trump Super PAC led by Ike Perlmutter, former chairman of Marvel Entertainment at Disney. Perlmutter, a seasoned GOP rainmaker, has been a significant supporter of both Trump and DeSantis.
At a recent donor event in South Florida, Trump is said to have personally called in to commend DeSantis, saying, “Ron, I love that you’re back.”
The Super PAC has already garnered $13 million, with $10.1 million contributed by Perlmutter and his wife, Laura. Another major donor, Anthony Lomangino, chairman of Southern Waste Systems, has also pledged $1 million to the PAC.
The decision to support Trump's campaign appears to be a calculated move by DeSantis, who is looking to maintain his influence and political capital within the GOP.
By aligning himself with Trump, DeSantis aims to strengthen his position for a potential presidential run in 2028, when Trump will be ineligible to run due to constitutional term limits if he wins the upcoming election.
Roy Bailey, a Dallas investor and former co-chairman of DeSantis’ national finance committee, expressed confidence in DeSantis’ leadership.
“He’s shown his commitment to the president and that’s why I say we’ll follow his lead, and why I think donors will follow his lead,” Bailey told the Associated Press. “We will be focused on past DeSantis donors who have yet to donate to President Trump. We’re going to try to mine those donors for him. That will create a lot of value.”
DeSantis trolled on social media
DeSantis has faced quite a backlash on social media, with critics mocking his efforts to raise funds for Trump.
"He's never going to like you, Ron," one posted on X.
"Clowns clowning for other clowns," another wrote.
"Kiss the ring DeSantis just like the rest," someone else added.
"Boy could that money be put to some REAL use in FL!!!" another offered.
Ups and downs in Trump and DeSantis' relationship
The relationship between Trump and DeSantis has seen its ups and downs. Initially, Trump endorsed DeSantis in his 2018 gubernatorial run, which significantly boosted DeSantis’ political career. However, the 2024 Republican presidential primary turned them into fierce competitors.
In April, DeSantis signaled a willingness to support Trump’s campaign during a private event with donors, and later that month, the two had breakfast together at a South Florida golf club. These meetings have facilitated a gradual thawing of their relationship.
The upcoming fundraising tour represents a crucial moment for both Trump and DeSantis. For Trump, it offers a substantial financial boost for his campaign. For DeSantis, it is an opportunity to redeem his standing within the GOP and build a foundation for future political endeavors.
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