Trump Teases Major New Job for Florida’s Governor
It’s a shift that would have seemed unlikely not long ago. President Donald Trump said Friday he would consider Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for a cabinet position, signaling how far their relationship has moved since the bruising 2024 Republican primary.
“Well, I like him a lot,” Trump said when asked about the possibility, offering a notably straightforward endorsement of a former rival he once targeted relentlessly on the campaign trail.
That earlier phase was defined by sharp attacks and dismissive nicknames, with Trump branding DeSantis “Ron DeSanctimonious” as the two competed for the nomination.
But the political reality after the primaries forced a reset. DeSantis exited the race early after a weak showing in Iowa, later endorsing Trump and aligning himself with the administration’s priorities.
Since then, the tone has changed. Trump has publicly praised DeSantis’ performance as governor, even grading him a “10 out of 10 — maybe 9.9” during a joint appearance tied to an immigration detention facility in Florida. The cooperation has extended into policy areas, particularly immigration enforcement and Republican electoral strategy.
DeSantis has also taken steps that reinforce that alignment. He has backed Trump’s policy moves, including executive actions affecting college athletics, and supported redistricting efforts in Florida that could strengthen Republican positioning in future congressional elections.
At the state level, he has signed measures tied to honoring Trump, including naming infrastructure near Mar-a-Lago.
The timing adds another layer. Trump has recently reshuffled parts of his cabinet, removing several high-profile officials and leaving key positions—such as attorney general and labor secretary—without permanent replacements. That creates an opening where a figure like DeSantis, with executive experience and national recognition, could fit.
Reports have previously indicated DeSantis has shown interest in roles such as defense secretary or attorney general, though no formal nomination has been made. His current term as governor runs through January 2027, meaning any transition would require navigating both political and logistical considerations.