The same venue where Ron DeSantis’ political ascent began in 2018, the Gaylord Palms Resort just outside of Orlando, now appears to be the battleground where his grip on the Republican Party is slipping away. The Freedom Summit, hosted by the Republican Party of Florida, unfolded on Saturday, with DeSantis finding himself overshadowed by the towering presence of former President Donald Trump.
Back in 2018, DeSantis secured his gubernatorial nomination with a crucial endorsement from Trump, propelling him to victory. However, at the recent Freedom Summit, it became evident that the tables had turned. Trump, buoyed by resounding support from the audience, took center stage, leaving DeSantis struggling to maintain his influence within the party.
Trump’s dominance was palpable throughout the event. Attendees fervently expressed their allegiance to the former president, with chants of “we love Trump” resonating through the crowded room. The summit saw notable figures like former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who dared to question Trump, met with jeers and disapproval from the audience. Even DeSantis, once a party favorite, faced challenges, particularly when he criticized Trump’s use of teleprompters.
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DeSantis, the only candidate present at the event with significant traction in the GOP primary, found himself in an uphill battle. Despite his efforts to rally supporters, the overwhelming sentiment was in favor of Trump. The event’s schedule seemed deliberately stacked against DeSantis, with Trump enjoying the prime keynote slot and a series of pro-Trump speakers preceding him on stage.
Adding to DeSantis’ woes, Trump’s campaign announced the defection of seven previously staunch DeSantis endorsers from the Florida Legislature to support Trump. Although DeSantis downplayed these defections, he acknowledged the challenge posed by Trump’s relentless attacks, considering them as evidence of his threat level in the race.
As public polls reflect Trump’s significant lead, DeSantis finds himself vying for second place alongside former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley. With Haley’s absence from the event due to family concerns, DeSantis stands as the sole contender trying to navigate a primary dominated by Trump.
In the eyes of the audience, Trump’s words carried immense weight, further solidifying the belief that he continues to shape the narrative of the Republican presidential primary. As the cheers echoed in the hall, it became clear — Trump’s influence remains unassailable, leaving DeSantis and other contenders struggling to catch up in the race for the GOP nomination.
