Gov. Ron DeSantis Addresses Reports On His Wife Running To Succeed Him

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-Fla.) on Monday addressed speculation that his wife, Casey DeSantis, is planning to run to succeed him at the end of his current term, noting she has “zero” interest in taking over his position.

During a press conference held in Coral Gables, Florida, the Republican lawmaker was asked if he has ever heard his wife entertain the prospect of standing as a candidate in the next gubernatorial election scheduled for November 2026. Ron DeSantis, who is currently serving out his second term in office, is not able to run for reelection due to term limits.

“If I had to characterize her interest in getting into the political thicket as a candidate, I would say, I would characterize it as zero,” DeSantis replied. “I think it’s because she’s had a front-row seat to all the nonsense that goes on when you do it.”

Still, DeSantis touted his wife’s record as first lady, claiming representatives from other states have visited Florida to study and recreate her work in other parts of the country.

“Imitation is the most, is the sincerest form of flattery, and people wouldn’t be imitating what she’s been able to do unless it’s been successful, and it has been,” he said.

Casey DeSantis, a former local news journalist, cancer survivor and mother of three, has spearheaded several initiatives as first lady, including on mental health and substance abuse.

Speculation has been mounting that Casey DeSantis, who has also played a major role in her husband’s political career, including his failed 2024 presidential bid, is mulling a run for governor.

A poll conducted by Florida Atlantic University, released last month, showed 38% of those surveyed would support Casey DeSantis over Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) in a potential