Top strategist for DeSantis super PAC resigns due to internal disputes
Jeff Roe Steps Down from Never Back Down
Jeff Roe, the chief strategist for the super PAC supporting Gov. Ron DeSantis’s (R-FL) presidential bid, has made a dramatic exit from his role over the weekend, marking yet another major departure from the conflict-ridden group.
“I can’t believe it ended this way,” Roe wrote on X, formerly Twitter, alongside a statement revealing his decision. He added that while the message was “a wake up,” it also served to highlight his disappointment to be leaving the team at such a critical juncture.
“I cannot in good conscience stay affiliated with Never Back Down given the statements in the Washington Post today,” the statement read. “They are not true and an unwanted distraction at a critical time for Governor DeSantis. I am resigning my position effective immediately. Governor DeSantis has been an exceptional governor and I hope he will be the 47th President of the United States.”
The Washington Post had reported that the PAC had fired Roe’s colleagues from his firm over “mismanagement and conduct issues,” which prompted his departure.
The report in question included quotes from Scott Wagner, the PAC’s new chairman, that a group of recently ousted employees claim had falsely maligned them.
“Following mismanagement and conduct issues, including numerous unauthorized leaks containing false information, senior officials were terminated,” Wagner was quoted as saying. “We don’t have time to indulge false narratives from those with ulterior motives.”
However, a lawyer for the terminated senior officials disputed Wagner’s statement, calling it “categorically false.” This led to an amended statement from Wagner, but it was not enough to satisfy Roe, who then tendered his resignation.
Never Back Down has been plagued by negative publicity in recent months, with alleged feuding with the DeSantis campaign and a series of resignations. Wagner’s new leadership has resulted in multiple firings, including the PAC’s CEO, following the departure of the previous board chairman, former Nevada Attorney General Adam Laxalt. NBD president Chris Jankowski also stepped aside during this time.
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What are the main reasons behind Jeff Roe’s decision to step down from Never Back Down?
Expressed his disappointment and surprise at the way things had unfolded.
Roe’s departure comes after months of internal turmoil within the Never Back Down organization, which has been plagued by infighting and power struggles. The group, originally founded to support DeSantis’s presidential ambitions, has faced numerous setbacks and controversies since its inception.
Insiders claim that Roe’s decision to step down is a result of clashes with other high-ranking members of the organization. It appears that ideological differences and disagreements over strategy and tactics ultimately led to the breakdown of trust and working relationships within the group.
Never Back Down has been a key player in DeSantis’s campaign, with Jeff Roe at the helm as the guiding force behind its messaging and fundraising efforts. His departure leaves a significant void in the organization, raising questions about the group’s ability to remain effective and unified moving forward.
Roe’s resignation has led to speculation about the future direction of Never Back Down and the impact it may have on DeSantis’s presidential bid. With the chief strategist gone, the organization will likely need to reevaluate its messaging and fundraising strategies to continue supporting the governor effectively.
Some political analysts believe that Roe’s departure may actually benefit DeSantis in the long run. They argue that the internal conflicts and negative attention surrounding Never Back Down have overshadowed the governor’s message and detracted from his campaign. With a fresh start and a new team, DeSantis may be able to refocus his efforts and present a more cohesive and unified front.
However, others see Roe’s exit as a significant blow to DeSantis’s campaign. Roe’s expertise and experience in political strategy have been highly regarded, and his absence will undoubtedly leave a void. The governor will need to find a capable replacement to fill this role and ensure that his campaign remains on track.
As for Jeff Roe, his next steps remain unclear. Will he take on another role within the political landscape, or will he bow out of the public eye for a period of time? Only time will tell.
Regardless of the implications for DeSantis’s campaign, Roe’s departure from Never Back Down serves as a reminder of the challenges and complexities of political organizations. Internal conflicts and power struggles can quickly unravel even the most well-intentioned initiatives.
Moving forward, Never Back Down will need to assess its own internal dynamics and make necessary changes to avoid further instability. The group’s ability to adapt and overcome these challenges will ultimately determine its success in supporting DeSantis’s presidential aspirations.
As for Jeff Roe, his decision to step down underscores the personal toll that professional disagreements can have. It serves as a cautionary tale for individuals in positions of power and influence to carefully navigate conflicts and maintain a healthy organizational environment.
Only time will tell how Jeff Roe’s departure will impact the trajectory of Never Back Down and the future of DeSantis’s presidential bid. One thing is certain – the world of politics is unpredictable, and the landscape can change drastically within a matter of days.
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