In a recent development within the Republican Party's 2024 presidential race, former President Donald Trump has taken a swipe at one of his potential rivals, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Trump's remarks come in the wake of recent polls that show a significant gap between him and DeSantis.
According to a report from OK Magazine, Trump took to Truth Social on October 20 to express his views on DeSantis' campaign. He wrote, "Wow! Looks like Ron DeSanctimonious has fallen to 3rd place, and heading down, in his ridiculous run to be President." Trump further criticized DeSantis, stating, "Destroying Social Security and Medicare hasn't exactly helped him! In the important Emerson Poll, he's dropped to 8%, 51 Points behind his favorite President, ME." Trump went on to reference the fact that DeSantis and another opponent, Nikki Haley, are closely matched in the polls. He added, "Birdbrain, who may be even worse, is fighting it out with others for a very distant 2nd place."
Mediaite's coverage of the situation echoed similar sentiments. An Emerson poll released on Friday revealed Trump as the dominant Republican primary frontrunner with a staggering 59%. In contrast, DeSantis and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley are tied in joint-second place, each garnering only 8%. This marks a significant decline for DeSantis, who, during the early days of his campaign in May, averaged around 20% in the polls, solidifying his position as the second favorite behind Trump. However, as per RealClearPolitics' Republican primary poll average, DeSantis still holds onto the second spot with 12.8%, trailing behind Trump's commanding 59.1% but surpassing Haley's 7.4%.
Trump didn't stop at just pointing out the poll numbers. He also took a dig at the Republican debates, which he has chosen not to participate in. He remarked, "The last debate was the lowest rated debate in history. The next and probably last one, in Miami, will do even worse. Republicans should not debate, they should UNITE in defeating the WORST & MOST INCOMPETENT ADMINISTRATION IN THE HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!"
The former president's comments underscore the internal dynamics and competition within the GOP as they gear up for the 2024 presidential race. Trump's dominant position in the polls, despite facing multiple legal challenges this year, including allegations related to attempting to overturn the 2020 presidential election results, showcases his enduring influence within the party.
DeSantis, on the other hand, has seen a turbulent journey since the launch of his campaign. His initial strong standing in the polls has waned, and the recent numbers indicate a need for recalibration if he aims to challenge Trump's dominance.
As the race for the 2024 GOP nomination heats up, political analysts and party insiders will be keenly watching how these dynamics evolve and what strategies the potential candidates adopt to gain an edge.
