DeSantis suspends presidential campaign, endorses Donald Trump – WPEC
Now
64
Mon
70
Tue
77
by Gershon Harrell
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has decided to suspend his presidential campaign on Saturday.
He made the announcement on X, formerly known as Twitter, stating he couldn't have his supporters donate time and resources if there "wasn't a clear path to victory."
See also: Ousted FL GOP leader Christian Ziegler cleared of rape allegation, faces other charge
"Accordingly I am today suspending my campaign. I'm proud to have delivered on 100 percent of my promises and I will not stop now," DeSantis said in his statement.
He went on to endorse former President Donald Trump.
His suspension so far has gotten a response from state Senator Blaise Ingolia who announced that he will endorse Trump.
“For years, I’ve had a front row seat watching America’s Governor Ron DeSantis remake both Florida’s political and policy landscape. Nobody has been more transformational in doing so. Ron DeSantis is a national leader when it comes to cutting taxes, creating jobs, stopping illegal immigration, protecting our children, and protecting our freedoms and our elections. Although this is not his time, I have all the confidence in his ability and his passion to continue fighting not only for Floridians, but for the greatness that is the United States of America,” said Senator Ingoglia.
Presidential Candidate Ryan Blinkley said in a statement:
"I have the utmost respect for Governor DeSantis, and for all he has accomplished in the great state of Florida. I am certain he will continue to have a positive impact in public service moving forward. While this is a disappointing day for his supporters in New Hampshire and elsewhere, I ask that they consider our message and campaign as an alternative. We need new leadership in this country to overcome the serious challenges we face. I will bring that leadership to the people of our great nation."
Florida Senator Marco Rubio, didn't mention DeSantis specifically but posted on X, "One step closer to getting everyone focused on saving our country by helping Trump beat Biden."
Kathleen Passidomo, state senator and representative for District 28, has followed DeSantis lead in endorsing former president Trump.
In a statement from Passidomo:
"As we head toward November, the stakes are very high. Our party must unite and work together. I am proud to stand with Gov. Ron DeSantis and speaker Paul Renner to endorse Donald Trump."
Kim Reynolds, Governor of Iowa, and Gavin Newsom, Governor of California have also chimed in on DeSantis suspending his presidential campaign.
Reynolds said, "It was an honor to support DeSantis. His record as Governor of Florida is phenomenal, and I know he will continue to be an effective leader for years to come. Thank you DeSantis and Casey DeSantis for your leadership and friendship. Our country is better because of you."
Meanwhile, Newsom announced on X that there was a fire sale on DeSantis merchandise.
DeSantis announced in May of 2023 that he would be running for president on X. He was supposed to go live with Twitter CEO Elon Musk, however, his announcement was derailed due to technical difficulties.