DeSantis’ opponents capitalize on initial missteps during campaign start.
Is Ron DeSantis Losing Ground in the 2024 Republican Primary?
Ron DeSantis has long been considered the Republican best positioned to take on former President Donald Trump in 2024. He’s viewed as “Trump without the baggage,” a reputation that was cemented in November after DeSantis won a second term as governor of Florida in a landslide victory.
But recent missteps and a slide in the polls have emboldened the rest of the GOP field, who are competing to be the next best alternative to Trump. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley has painted DeSantis as nothing more than a “mini-Trump,” while other candidates have criticized his eating habits and difficulty attracting endorsements.
Despite still polling at 20%, DeSantis faces an enormous target on his back as several candidates are expected to enter the race, including former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and former Vice President Mike Pence. Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) announced his campaign on Monday. Each will be jockeying to convince voters that they, not DeSantis, are the strongest alternative to Trump.
DeSantis Must Challenge Trump Head-On
While Trump has an emotional connection with the base of the Republican Party, GOP voters are open to nominating someone else if they can make their case convincingly. To beat Trump, candidates must take shots at him, not DeSantis. DeSantis must challenge the former president head-on if he wants to regain his footing and remain a strong second place in the polls.
More the Merrier for Trump
Trump and his allies have adopted a “more the merrier” attitude, understanding that a crowded field helped Trump win the presidency in 2016. He continues to view DeSantis as his greatest threat, but has questioned why he should participate in the primary debates this cycle given his front-runner status, raising the prospect that Trump may not share a stage with the rivals looking to displace him.
Can Anyone Dislodge Trump?
Read More From Original Article Here: DeSantis rivals seize on early stumbles as campaign gets underway
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