Florida’s First Lady Casey DeSantis may soon shatter the glass ceiling as she hints at a gubernatorial run to continue her husband’s conservative legacy in the Sunshine State. With her husband calling her “as conservative or more conservative than me,” conservatives across Florida are watching closely as the potential battle for Florida’s future takes shape.
At a glance:
- Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis has hinted at running for Governor in 2026
- Gov. Ron DeSantis praised his wife’s conservative credentials, saying she would be “as conservative or more conservative” than him
- Casey DeSantis enjoys a 57% favorability rating among Florida Republicans
- Rep. Byron Donalds has announced his candidacy with endorsements from Donald Trump and Trump Jr.
- The race could become a proxy battle between the DeSantis and Trump factions of the Republican Party
Florida’s First Lady Considers Historic Run
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently discussed his wife Casey’s potential gubernatorial ambitions at the National Review’s Idea Summit, fueling speculation about her political future – and now, she’s floating the possibility, too. A University of North Florida poll shows Casey DeSantis with a strong 57% favorability rating among state GOP voters, positioning her as a formidable candidate in a potential 2026 race.
When asked about her political aspirations, the First Lady quoted baseball legend Yogi Berra, saying “When you come to a fork in the road, take it.” Governor DeSantis further heightened speculation by suggesting she was “leaving that to imagination,” a comment that has Republican voters buzzing about the possibility of Florida’s first female governor.
Trump Endorses Donalds As Competition Heats Up
The race for Florida’s governorship has already attracted high-profile contenders, with Congressman Byron Donalds announcing his candidacy with the backing of President Donald Trump. Recent polling shows Donalds leading among likely Florida Republican primary voters with 34% support compared to Casey DeSantis’ 30%, though these numbers shift significantly when voters are informed of Trump’s endorsement.
Donald Trump Jr. has publicly stated: “My friend Byron Donalds is a great patriot and has my full endorsement for Florida Governor. Byron is a fighter and a true champion for our America First movement.” When voters learn of Trump’s endorsement, Donalds’ support increases to 45% while Casey DeSantis’ drops to 23%, highlighting the continued influence of Trump in Florida politics.
The race could, therefore, set the stage for another Trump-DeSantis showdown – but DeSantis may just be able to win this one. It’ll just take the right messaging and campaign.
Governor DeSantis has questioned Donalds’ accomplishments while emphasizing his wife’s extensive work in cancer research and behavioral health initiatives across Florida. As a breast cancer survivor herself, Casey DeSantis has spearheaded important initiatives like Hope Florida, focusing on child welfare and helping families in need throughout the state.