Florida Governor Ron DeSantis will be addressing the upcoming nominating convention for former President Donald Trump, after previously being expected to not speak at the event. A source familiar with the schedule confirmed DeSantis’ speaking role at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Despite past tensions between the two, DeSantis and Trump have worked towards a detente that benefits both of them.
Unlike Texas Senator Ted Cruz, who faced backlash for not endorsing Trump at a previous convention, DeSantis swiftly endorsed Trump after losing to him. DeSantis was already scheduled to be in Milwaukee for other events during the convention, including a town hall and a governors’ gathering.
Trump’s control over the Republican National Committee and the convention has allowed him to dictate aspects like party leadership and speaker selection. DeSantis’ inclusion as a speaker shows the progress in his relationship with Trump since their primary contest. DeSantis has actively supported Trump’s fundraising efforts and campaign events.
Former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, another past rival of Trump, will not be speaking at the convention. Trump criticized Haley for staying in the race too long, unlike DeSantis who endorsed Trump early on. Trump expressed confidence that moderate voters would still support him over Biden regardless of his reconciliation with Haley.