Florida Sen. Rick Scott says it’s time to unite behind former President Donald Trump in an op-ed published in Newsweek on Thursday.
“I am optimistic that we can return America to its rightful position of economic and military strength and the undisputed moral leader of the free world, but only with strong leadership in the White House. That is why I support my friend President Donald J. Trump to be the 47th president of the United States and encourage every Republican to unite behind his efforts to win back the White House,” Scott wrote in a Newsweek op-ed.
A political shift is taking place in Florida as the Republican Party’s attention shifts from Governor Ron DeSantis to former President Donald Trump.
Trump allies in the state are organizing efforts to convert DeSantis endorsers into Trump supporters, signaling a significant change in the state’s GOP alignment.
Read: “It’s Coming” State GOP Officials In Florida Expected To Shift Support From DeSantis To Trump
Trump’s momentum in Florida has been steadily building. He quickly secured endorsements from most of the state’s Republican members of Congress, solidifying his influence within the party.
The Florida GOP’s decision to eliminate the requirement for presidential candidates to support the eventual nominee further exemplifies the shift towards Trump. While DeSantis did not support this decision, Trump’s growing support in the state was evident.
Trump’s Effective Grassroots Strategy
Trump has employed a solid approach to win over grassroots leaders in Florida. He strategically invited state executive committee members to an event at Mar-a-Lago, successfully swaying them towards eliminating the loyalty oath.
This move showcased Trump’s lobbying techniques, ultimately leading to the repeal of the loyalty oath and solidifying his control over the Republican Party in Florida.
Trump’s Dominance in the Party
Trump’s dominance within the Republican Party in Florida is further highlighted by his speaking schedule at the Florida GOP summit.
While DeSantis, who has dedicated significant efforts to strengthen the party during his tenure as governor, will be speaking midday Saturday, Trump secured the coveted keynote speaker slot. This contrast underscores Trump’s influence and the support he enjoys within the party.
Signs of Eroding Support for DeSantis
Despite DeSantis’ endorsements from 99 Republicans in the Legislature, signs of an eroding base of support have emerged.
State Representative Randy Fine, the lone Jewish Republican in the Legislature, recently flipped his endorsement from DeSantis to Trump. Fine cited DeSantis’ response to the terrorist attacks in Israel as the reason behind his change of heart. This endorsement flip reflects a growing sentiment among members that Trump will be the Republican nominee for president in 2024.
Trump’s Counterprogramming Event
To divert attention from the third GOP debate, Trump has opted to hold a counterprogramming event in nearby Hialeah.
This decision further solidifies his position as the frontrunner and highlights his confidence in his dominance within Florida politics.
As Trump continues to dominate the political landscape in the state, his opponents will have limited opportunities to regain momentum.
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