Politics

Trump, DeSantis Hold Private Meeting in Florida

Published APR 30 2024

Story

Image credit: Joe Raedle/Getty Images News via Getty Images

The Facts

Former Pres. Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis have reportedly agreed to a détente in a three-hour-long meeting over the weekend in Hollywood, Florida.
ap
On Monday, Trump, the presumptive 2024 GOP nominee, posted on his Truth Social platform that his former rival had expressed "full and enthusiastic support" for his White House bid.
New York Post
The meeting, the first since DeSantis withdrew from the presidential race and endorsed Trump in January, was arranged by their mutual friend and luxury real estate developer Steve Witkoff.
CNN
Though it prompted rumors about a potential Trump-DeSantis ticket, the meeting was reportedly focused on amending their relationship and convincing DeSantis to tap into his donor network to raise funds for the Trump campaign.
Independent
While Trump and the Republican National Committee have raised about $93.1M so far — less than half of Biden's $192M — the DeSantis campaign for the GOP nomination and a super PAC (Political Action Committee) supporting him raised $165M.
Daily Caller
The meeting comes after DeSantis told donors and supporters earlier this month about plans to fundraise for the former president.
Daily Wire

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The Spin

Republican narrative

Trump and DeSantis have acted wisely in agreeing to set their differences aside and reunite ahead of the presidential election. More than anything, peace between the two most popular Republicans is great news for the GOP, especially as the party has been plagued with infighting and Democrats try to attract the support of Never Trump "Republicans in Name Only."

The Epoch Times

Democratic narrative

Even if DeSantis' presidential effort has failed, his donor network could undoubtedly make him an effective fundraiser for his one-time rival and former Pres. Donald Trump. The irony is that the Florida governor spoke against Republicans who bowed to Trump's loyalty demands a few months ago — he has now just done the same thing.

Huffington Post