DeSantis to formally launch presidential bid next week

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: News Websites
18 May 08:45

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, 44, will officially launch his presidential candidacy for 2024 next week, as the Florida governor's campaign contributors begin a fundraising push, according to persons familiar with his plan.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis speaks during a press conference in Tampa Florida on May 17, 2023. (Reuters)

According to reports, the Governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, will officially launch his presidential campaign next week.

DeSantis' plan to file formal paperwork with the US Federal Election Commission announcing his campaign, which would coincide with the donor conference in Miami on May 25, puts him in direct rivalry with another Republican presidential contender, former US President Donald Trump.

DeSantis secured a wide base of endorsements from Iowa lawmakers on Saturday after completing a visit in the early-voting state.

About 37 Republican Iowa state senators and representatives have declared their support for DeSantis, according to the Super Pac Never Back Down.

Several other candidates are running, including former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley who is somewhat trailing in the polls, while Mike Pence, Trump's former Vice President, is also said to be mulling a run.

US media reports that a more formal event could follow the meeting.

DeSantis, who generally lags behind Trump in the polls, has in recent months experienced some challenges in attracting funding from key Republican donors.