During a recent town hall with CNN, Florida Governor and Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis expressed apprehension about the party's chances if Donald Trump were to become the Republican presidential nominee. In his discussion with CNN host Wolf Blitzer, DeSantis also questioned the ability of his opponent, Nikki Haley, to unite Republicans.
DeSantis emphasized the importance of winning core Republicans and conservatives in a primary election, stating, "I think it’s great in a general election to build a big tent…but to win a Republican primary…you gotta be able to win core Republicans, you gotta be able to win conservatives, and she can’t do that."
He continued to highlight Haley's perceived shortcomings, asserting, "She does not have the ability to win the kind of coalition that you need to win a Republican primary – period, much less take on Donald Trump."
The Florida governor further elaborated on his concerns during the town hall, citing Trump's legal challenges as potential distractions during the election. DeSantis expressed worry that if Trump were the nominee, the focus would shift to legal issues, trials, and events like January 6, potentially leading to a loss for the Republicans. He stressed the need for the election to center around the country's direction rather than becoming a referendum on contentious issues.
DeSantis's remarks followed his second-place finish at the Iowa caucuses, where he trailed Trump by 30 percentage points and edged out Nikki Haley by two points. The dynamics within the Republican party have intensified, with ABC News canceling the next presidential debate after Haley insisted on Trump's participation.
Additionally, a newly revealed recording exposed an aide to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin requesting an ambulance without lights and sirens, shedding light on behind-the-scenes events within the government.