Ron DeSantis Under Fire For Defying Trump

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is facing backlash from MAGA loyalists after he publicly dismissed President Donald Trump’s endorsement of Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) for Florida’s next governor in 2026. DeSantis, who has long positioned himself as a conservative warrior, made it clear that he believes the congressman should focus on enacting Trump’s policies in Washington rather than campaigning for higher office.

Trump’s surprise endorsement last week was met with enthusiasm from Donalds’ allies, but DeSantis poured cold water on the idea Monday, arguing that the congressman had not been involved in the political victories that reshaped Florida under his leadership.

“My view is, Donald Trump just got into office. I want these congressmen focused on enacting his agenda,” DeSantis said.

“They haven’t done very much yet. They’re not putting his executive orders into place. We have such a narrow majority that to be trying to campaign other places and missing these votes, I think is not something that’s advisable at all.”

The Florida governor, who once vied for the Republican presidential nomination against Trump before bowing out early, emphasized that Florida’s continued success required strong leadership rooted in experience. While stopping short of ruling out Donalds as a viable candidate, DeSantis cast doubt on whether he was the right person to carry on the policies that have defined his tenure.

“We’ve achieved victories in Florida. We need to start achieving those victories up there [in Washington],” he added. “I think people look at it and say, you know, you got a guy like Byron, he just hasn’t been a part of any of the victories that we’ve had here over the left over these last years.”

DeSantis also signaled his own interest in shaping Florida’s future leadership, stating, “We’re going to be looking to have somebody that’s going to be able to continue and build off the success that we’ve had here in Florida.”

“I think a lot of people think somehow the battle’s been won and you don’t have to worry about it. We could revert very quickly.”

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Last week, Trump enthusiastically endorsed Donalds for Florida’s governorship. In a post on Truth Social, Trump lauded Donalds as a “TOTAL WINNER” who would advance the America First agenda, even though the congressman has not formally announced a bid.

“I am hearing that Highly Respected Congressman Byron Donalds is considering running for Governor of Florida, a State that I love, and WON BIG in 2016, 2020, and 2024,” Trump wrote. “Byron has a great wife, Erika, and three beautiful sons. They are very proud of him!”

Trump’s endorsement carries significant weight in Florida, where his influence remains dominant among Republican voters. Donalds has been a staunch Trump ally, frequently appearing on cable news to defend the president’s immigration policies and economic vision.

Though Donalds has not officially declared his candidacy, sources suggest he is actively laying the groundwork for a campaign. At a recent Republican Party gathering in Orlando, Donalds reportedly confided in donors and party insiders that he plans to run.

His recent schedule suggests he is courting key endorsements and financial backers in preparation for a competitive GOP primary. If Donalds enters the race, he could face a crowded field, as other high-profile Republicans are reportedly considering bids.