DeSantis Makes a Startling U-Turn in His Presidential Plans

Photo byPhoto 265471396 © Beth Baisch

The CNN exclusive interview was supposed to be a crucial chance for Ron DeSantis to restart the Republican Party's stalemate.

But Donald Trump dominated the conversation as Trump somehow always does.

When challenged about Trump, DeSantis gave contradictory answers, directing his harshest criticism at federal law enforcement officers rather than his main Republican competitor, who may soon face charges for trying to rig the 2020 race.

The confusing message comes as DeSantis is under increased pressure to refocus his White House campaign.

Less than two months after entering the race, he's already reducing staff while facing new inquiries about his aggressive spending, his media strategy, and his apparent willingness to brawl with any opponents except for Trump, the one person he must defeat to win the GOP nomination for president in 2024.

For months, DeSantis' campaign has quietly voiced optimism that voters will eventually grow weary of Trump's mounting legal issues and baggage.

However, that same baggage, manifesting itself in the American legal system simultaneously as the GOP primary heats up, gives his challengers very little room to maneuver.

And with each fresh legal fight, Trump's status among Republican primary voters seems to improve.

Everyone hoped Trump would dig a hole big enough to swallow his ambitions. Trump is proving more resilient and somehow, again, underestimated.

On the other side, DeSantis' campaign has raised an astounding $150 million to support the presidential efforts. A super PAC run by allies (not permitted under law to interact with the campaign) received the vast bulk, or $130 million.

Within the first six weeks of DeSantis' campaign, more than $20 million was raised. And based on the latest federal filings published, he and his team had spent more than $8 million for over 100 paid staffers, luxury travel, and large security detail.

Do you want DeSantis to win the Republican Primaries?

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