Casey DeSantis is seriously considering a 2026 run for Florida governor following a major push from top Republican donors, according to multiple sources familiar with her thinking.
The wife of current Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is term-limited, has long been speculated as a potential candidate. However, discussions at a recent Palm Beach donor event have brought the possibility closer to reality.
“I have heard donors have been urging her to run, and while it’s not something she has wanted to do, they are causing her to at least stop and listen,” a source familiar with the situation told NBC News.
Shifting GOP alliances in Florida
Casey DeSantis’ potential candidacy could set up a high-profile Republican primary battle, likely pitting her against Rep. Byron Donalds, a staunch ally of President Donald Trump. If she enters the race, it could revive the ongoing power struggle between her husband and Trump, whose relationship soured during the 2024 GOP presidential primaries.
State Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson is also rumored to be considering a bid. Though he lacks the national profile of DeSantis or Donalds, he has significant fundraising resources, reportedly sitting on a $30 million war chest.
DeSantis’ strategy for succession
Ron DeSantis has played an active role in shaping Florida’s political future, and his influence is expected to be a major factor in the 2026 race. Initially, he hoped to back former state Attorney General Ashley Moody, but after Trump tapped Sen. Marco Rubio as secretary of state, Moody was appointed to fill Rubio’s Senate seat.
With Moody out of the race, Casey DeSantis has emerged as her husband’s preferred successor. “The governor sees his wife’s candidacy as his best opportunity to prevent a Simpson or Donalds governorship,” a source said.
A proxy war between DeSantis and Trump?
A Casey DeSantis candidacy would likely turn the Florida governor’s race into a battle between Ron DeSantis’ political influence and Trump’s endorsement power.
Donalds, once a close ally of DeSantis, endorsed Trump early in the 2024 presidential race, causing a rift between the two. Now, many expect Trump to back Donalds in the governor’s race, making it a test of who holds more sway over Florida’s Republican base.
Ron DeSantis has already indicated he will play an active role in the race, vowing to use his Florida Freedom Fund political committee to back a “strong gubernatorial candidate.”
As speculation grows, many political insiders believe Casey DeSantis’ candidacy is inevitable. “She’s going to run. At this point, most see that,” a source said. “There is a lot to be worked out, but this isn’t just a rumor anymore—it’s feeling very real.”
