In a surprising turn of events, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced the suspension of his Republican presidential campaign on Sunday, just before the New Hampshire primary, endorsing his former rival and 45th President of the United States, Donald Trump.
The decision narrows down the field, leaving Trump and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley as the major contenders ahead of Tuesday’s crucial primary.
DeSantis Throws Support Behind Trump Amidst Setback
The move by DeSantis, once considered a formidable threat to Trump’s dominance within the Republican Party, comes on the heels of a significant loss in the Iowa caucuses, where he suffered a 30-point defeat. Despite early advantages, including substantial campaign funding and a legislative record appealing to conservative voters, DeSantis struggled to gain momentum in the 2024 presidential race.
In an exit video posted on social media, DeSantis acknowledged the desire of a majority of Republican primary voters to give Trump another chance.
He asserted his endorsement of Trump while criticizing Haley and rejecting a return to the “old Republican guard of yesteryear” that he claimed Haley represented.
While DeSantis’ decision was not entirely unexpected following his Iowa defeat, the timing adds intrigue to the GOP race, particularly as the New Hampshire primary looms large.
The state now becomes a battleground for Trump and Haley, with DeSantis’ endorsement potentially influencing voters’ preferences.
Nikki Haley, speaking at a campaign event in Seabrook, New Hampshire, responded to DeSantis’ exit graciously, acknowledging his campaign and wishing him well.
She expressed readiness for a head-to-head competition, stating, “It’s now one fella and one lady left.”
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Ron DeSantis Exits 2024 Presidential Race
DeSantis’ withdrawal marks the end of a once-promising campaign for the Florida governor, who entered the race with high expectations.
The decision to suspend his campaign reportedly followed private discussions initiated after the Iowa caucuses, with DeSantis notifying top donors and supporters through phone conversations and text messages.
The endorsement of Trump by DeSantis, despite their past disagreements, adds a surprising twist to the race.
In his exit video, DeSantis emphasized the need to support Trump over the current incumbent, Joe Biden, acknowledging their differences on issues like the coronavirus pandemic and the elevation of Anthony Fauci.
The bitter rivalry between DeSantis and Trump, characterized by personal taunts and attacks, culminated in an unexpected show of support.
Trump’s campaign released a memo highlighting the pressure on Haley to win in New Hampshire, presenting her with two options: unite behind Trump if she loses or face embarrassment in her home state of South Carolina.
As the Republican candidates gear up for the New Hampshire primary, DeSantis’ departure sets the stage for a more direct confrontation between Trump and Haley, with the outcome likely to shape the trajectory of the GOP race moving forward.
The stakes are high, and the political landscape is shifting rapidly as the remaining candidates vie for party dominance in the 2024 presidential election.
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