With DeSantis no longer in contention, Floridians ponder, How will he administer now?

In a surprising twist, Governor Ron DeSantis, once hailed as invincible, exits the Republican presidential race following a decisive defeat in Iowa against former President Donald J. Trump. The fallout leaves Floridians questioning the trajectory of their state’s politics.

Election Triumph Fueled by Pandemic Response

DeSantis triumphed in the 2022 gubernatorial race by adeptly handling the COVID-19 pandemic, earning support from voters like Taylor Brame, 24, who moved to Florida from Seattle. Brame expressed disappointment, stating, “I thought he was going to go all the way.”

“DeSantis excelled in managing COVID-19, winning 2022 gubernatorial race, but Taylor Brame, 24, expected more,” acording to Bloomberg

Supporters Express Loyalty

Paul Starrett, 69, a staunch supporter wearing a red Trump hat, echoed the sentiment. He asserted, “He’s such a great governor, in my opinion, that I would not want to see him go yet.” Despite DeSantis’s national aspirations, his policies have left a lasting impact on Floridians, with both supporters and critics eagerly awaiting his return to the state’s governance.

Criticism and Concerns

Not all sentiments toward DeSantis are positive. Jamie Maniscalco, 33, a registered Democrat, criticized the governor as self-serving. He pointed to contentious issues such as book bans in schools and restrictive abortion laws. Concerns about rising living costs have also been raised, with residents attributing increased expenses to policies like the influx of residents during the pandemic.

Decline in Approval Ratings

Public opinion surveys indicate a decline in DeSantis’s job approval since his entry into the presidential race. Rick Reikenis, a 71-year-old engineer and registered Democrat, accused the governor of neglecting critical Florida issues in favor of national concerns. “A lot more attention should have been paid to the insurance crisis than running for president,” Reikenis remarked.

Divided Opinions on Florida’s Future

As Florida grapples with the aftermath of DeSantis’s presidential ambitions, opinions remain divided. While some hope he will adhere to policies that make the state attractive, others have a different perspective. Clare Schroeder, 70, an unaffiliated voter, views his presidential run as “ego-driven.” She calls for a shift toward a more centrist political stance. The state’s political landscape is undeniably in flux, leaving Floridians pondering the path ahead.

“DeSantis aftermath in Florida: divided opinions, some hopeful, others criticize, calling for centrist change,” to said Barron’s