You won’t believe what’s happening…
A super PAC affiliated with former President Trump has lodged a formal accusation against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, claiming that he is running a “shadow presidential campaign.” This accusation represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Trump’s supporters and DeSantis, who is seen as a potential rival in the 2024 presidential race.
According to The Hill, Make America Great Again Inc., the organization in question, is submitting a complaint to the Florida Commission on Ethics. The complaint asserts that the various pro-DeSantis super PACs, political donations at the state level, and the governor’s profitable book tour collectively constitute a de facto presidential campaign, akin to a bid for the White House.
The complaint, spanning 15 pages, maintains that the numerous actions taken by DeSantis and his affiliated organizations violate the law. It is argued that these activities are geared towards advancing the governor’s personal political goals, benefiting him financially while costing the taxpayers of Florida, and are aimed at influencing his decision to resign from his current position.
The complaint explains, “It is no secret that Governor DeSantis aspires to national prominence. In fact, and as detailed herein, Governor DeSantis is already a de facto candidate for President of the United States under federal election laws.”
They added, “Governor DeSantis’s hamhanded maneuverings have rendered him irreparably conflicted and have left the statehouse vacant.”
DeSantis communications director Taryn Fenske fired back at Make America Great Again Inc and suggested it was just a political stunt.
Fenske wrote, “Adding this to the list of frivolous and politically motivated attacks. It’s inappropriate to use state ethics complaints for partisan purposes.”
While he has not yet announced his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election, DeSantis has consistently downplayed inquiries about his intentions. Nevertheless, many anticipate that he will ultimately run for office, and the governor himself has stated that he will reach a decision following the conclusion of the Florida state legislature’s annual session in May.