DeSantis promotes wife Casey for Florida governorship

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Discussions surrounding Casey DeSantis and her future political moves have long captured the attention of Tallahassee’s politicos. This week, her husband, Governor Ron DeSantis, has fueled speculation by suggesting she could be a formidable candidate for his position in the future.

As Florida law prohibits governors from serving more than two consecutive terms, Ron DeSantis, a prominent Republican figure, won’t be eligible for re-election in 2026. However, prospects remain open for another run further down the line. As he nears the conclusion of his second term, Governor DeSantis has been endorsing his wife while critiquing Donald Trump’s favored candidate, Representative Byron Donalds, for the role.

“People have been talking about her potential candidacy. What I’ve emphasized is that she’s never been one to chase after roles—that’s just not her style,” DeSantis, 46, mentioned on Monday while responding to journalists. “But let me tell you, she’d outperform me. No doubt about it.”

Were Casey DeSantis to compete for and ultimately win the governor seat, she would achieve the milestone of becoming Florida’s first female governor. Florida joins an exclusive list of 18 states that have yet to elect a woman governor. Historically, of the 51 women who have led their state, three ascended to the position, subsequent to their husbands, per data from the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University.

Getting to Know Casey DeSantis:

A Trusted Advisor to the Governor

Casey DeSantis has long been seen as an integral advisor to her spouse, playing a key role in his inner circle. The governor, known for maintaining a close-knit group and having little tolerance for standard political networking, shares a lasting and influential partnership with his wife. During the Republican presidential nomination, she emerged as a principal surrogate alongside her husband in his contest against Donald Trump. As a 44-year-old mother of three, she strategically revealed a softer and more relatable image to voters, particularly in Iowa, where personal connections are critical.

Casey DeSantis frequently won more favor from the audience than her husband, focusing her speeches on family, community dynamics, and the significance of raising children.

A Veteran Journalist by Profession

Originally from Ohio, Casey DeSantis later moved to South Carolina and pursued a degree in economics at the College of Charleston. She then ventured into journalism as a producer and host for the PGA Tour and as a reporter and anchor for Jacksonville’s TV stations in Florida.

Her career saw her become a well-known local daytime talk show host, where she sharpened her media savvy and visibility. She departed from journalism in 2018, stepping down to support her husband’s inaugural gubernatorial campaign.

Advancing Initiatives in Tallahassee

The first lady has actively championed causes under her husband’s governance, focusing on children, family welfare, and mental health advocacy. Her public presence, often alongside her children, is noticeable at various civic and fundraising occasions.

Among her accomplishments is the Hope Florida initiative, an effort aimed at connecting residents facing financial hardships with faith-based organizations, nonprofits, and community groups for resources like food, housing, and job training assistance.

She’s collaborated with Florida’s Department of Education to craft “character standards” for schools, emphasizing lessons on resilience, responsibility, and respect.

Her Journey Battling Cancer

In 2021, the governor announced Casey’s breast cancer diagnosis. Following surgical procedures and chemotherapy, she was declared cancer-free in 2022. As a survivor, the first lady has passionately advocated for early cancer detection, meeting with patients statewide and emphasizing awareness. Her influence led to the governor sanctioning $100 million in sustained funding for cancer research and medical care.