Just two days ahead of the New Hampshire primary, on Sunday, January 21, 2024, Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis halted his bid for the Republican presidential nomination and threw his support behind Former President Donald Trump.
DeSantis, previously regarded as a formidable challenger to Trump, acknowledged the preference of Republican primary voters for Trump in a video message.
“It’s clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance,” DeSantis said, creating a pivotal moment in the GOP contest just before the New Hampshire primary on Tuesday.
The endorsement follows a challenging campaign for DeSantis, who finished a distant second in the Iowa caucuses, some 30 points behind Trump, and encountered numerous setbacks.
Despite significant financial resources and a notable record as governor, DeSantis’s campaign suffered from technical difficulties, staff turnover, and strategic issues that affected its performance.
Trump, who has maintained a leading position in the primary race, welcomed DeSantis’s endorsement at a New Hampshire rally. He referred to DeSantis as a “really terrific person,” hinting at a reconciliation after their previous contentious exchanges.
Nikki Haley responded to the news in Seabrook, New Hampshire, praising DeSantis’s efforts and framing the race as now being between her and Trump. This change prompts both campaigns to adjust their strategies in response to the evolving competitive landscape.
DeSantis communicated his decision to key donors and supporters, marking an organized exit from the presidential race.
This move signifies a significant shift for DeSantis, who had been engaged in a heated rivalry with Trump. Despite their past disputes, DeSantis affirmed his commitment to supporting the Republican nominee, emphasizing Trump’s advantages over the current administration and vowing to unite behind the party’s choice to challenge President Joe Biden.
With the Republican primary race entering a critical phase, Trump’s team has begun to focus more on Haley, reflecting the changing dynamics of the contest.