Trump made a big promise to Byron Donalds and now the DeSantis family seems to have other plans.
Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis stirred speculation about her political future during a high-profile appearance at the National Review Institute’s Ideas Summit—leaving conservatives across the Sunshine State wondering: Is she the next governor of Florida?
Could Casey DeSantis Be Florida’s Next Great Conservative Leader?
During a moderated discussion, National Review’s Jim Geraghty asked the question on everyone’s mind:
“There’s growing speculation you may run for governor. Have you given it any thought?”
DeSantis didn’t confirm a run—but her response turned heads.
“This man is the GOAT,” she said, referring to her husband, Governor Ron DeSantis. “Everything he says he’ll do—he delivers. That’s why Florida is thriving. That’s why we’re the Free State.”
Florida: A Conservative Success Story
Mrs. DeSantis praised her husband’s track record:
- Over 1.2 million more registered Republicans than Democrats
- Strong defense of parental rights, election integrity, and economic freedom
- A clear rejection of career politicians and establishment elites
She emphasized what sets Florida apart: leadership with a backbone.
“Most politicians want to be somebody—not do something,” she said. “They chase cocktail parties and the next rung on the ladder. But our Founders believed in serving and then stepping aside. That’s the kind of leadership Ron brings.”
Hints at a Future Run?
While she stopped short of declaring her candidacy, Casey DeSantis left the door open.
“All of what Ron has built is fragile. It could all be undone. So… we’ll see,” she said, smiling.
Her comments are fueling discussions among voters, political analysts, and grassroots conservatives alike.
Trump Endorses Byron Donalds for Governor
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has weighed in with his own preferred candidate: Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL).
“Byron Donalds would be a truly Great and Powerful Governor for Florida,” Trump said on Truth Social. “RUN, BYRON, RUN!”
This move has added a new dynamic to Florida’s 2026 political landscape.
DeSantis Responds: “She’d Do Better Than Me”
In response to Trump’s endorsement, Governor Ron DeSantis took a veiled swipe at Donalds:
“Byron hasn’t been part of the conservative victories we’ve achieved here. He’s been campaigning in other states.”
The governor then turned the spotlight back to his wife:
“She’d do better than me. Her dedication to conservative values, her strength—she’d take everything we’ve built to the next level.”
Why This Matters for Florida and America
Florida continues to lead the way as a beacon of freedom, faith, and family values. As the state’s future leadership comes into focus, voters are paying close attention.
Whether it’s Casey DeSantis, Byron Donalds, or another rising Republican star, one thing is certain: Florida’s future is too important to leave in the hands of weak leadership.