Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis, on Sunday, January 21, 2024, ended his campaign for the Republican presidential nomination, only two days before the New Hampshire primary. He announced his support for Former President Donald Trump.
Known as a strong contender against Trump, DeSantis publicly acknowledged the Republican primary voters’ preference for Trump in a video message.
“A majority of Republican primary voters are keen to give Donald Trump another chance,” stated DeSantis. His announcement came at a crucial time in the GOP race, just before the New Hampshire primary on Tuesday.
DeSantis’s endorsement came after a challenging campaign. Despite having significant financial backing and a commendable tenure as governor, he finished a distant second in the Iowa caucuses, trailing Trump by 30 points. His campaign also faced numerous hurdles such as technical problems, staff changes, and strategic complications.
Trump, still leading in the primary race, embraced DeSantis’s endorsement during a rally in New Hampshire. He described DeSantis as a “really terrific person,” suggesting a potential thaw in their previously strained relationship.
In Seabrook, New Hampshire, Nikki Haley reacted to the news by commending DeSantis’s efforts and positioning the race as now being between her and Trump. The development requires both campaigns to review and modify their strategies according to the new competitive scenario.
Before making his decision public, DeSantis informed key donors and supporters, ensuring a well-coordinated exit from the presidential race.
This decision marks a substantial shift for DeSantis, who was previously in a tense rivalry with Trump. Regardless of their past disagreements, DeSantis confirmed his intention to back the Republican nominee. He highlighted Trump’s strengths over the current administration and promised to rally behind the party’s choice to challenge President Joe Biden.
As the Republican primary race enters a crucial stage, the focus of Trump’s team has started to shift more towards Haley, indicating the evolving dynamics of the competition.
