Two days before the New Hampshire primary, on January 21, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida announced the end of his campaign for the Republican presidential nomination and pledged his support to former President Donald Trump.
Previously seen as a significant contender against Trump, DeSantis recognized the Republican primary voters’ inclination towards Trump in a video message.
“The majority of Republican primary voters wish to present Donald Trump with another opportunity,” stated DeSantis, his announcement creating a crucial point in the GOP race just before the New Hampshire primary on Tuesday.
DeSantis’s endorsement came after a difficult campaign, where he lagged 30 points behind Trump in the Iowa caucuses, and faced multiple hurdles.
Despite substantial financial backing and a noteworthy tenure as governor, DeSantis’s campaign was marred by technical issues, personnel changes, and strategic problems that impacted its success.
Trump, who has consistently led the primary race, appreciated DeSantis’s endorsement at a rally in New Hampshire. He called DeSantis a “truly remarkable individual,” hinting at potential reconciliation following their prior disagreements.
In Seabrook, New Hampshire, Nikki Haley responded to the news, commending DeSantis’s endeavor and framing the race as a competition between her and Trump. This development requires both campaigns to modify their strategies to adapt to the changing competitive field.
DeSantis conveyed his decision to key donors and supporters, effectively signaling his orderly departure from the presidential race.
This decision marks a significant change for DeSantis, who previously had an intense rivalry with Trump. Despite their earlier conflicts, DeSantis reiterated his dedication to backing the Republican nominee, highlighting Trump’s benefits over the current administration and promising to rally behind the party’s pick to challenge President Joe Biden.
As the Republican primary race enters a critical stage, Trump’s team has started directing more attention toward Haley, indicating the shifting dynamics of the competition.
