Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has dismissed rumors that his wife, First Lady Casey DeSantis, plans to run for governor in 2026 once he leaves office. DeSantis addressed speculation about his wife’s political ambitions during an event in Coral Gables. While recent polls have suggested that Casey DeSantis would be well-liked in a hypothetical Republican primary for governor, the governor emphasized that her interest in entering politics is essentially zero. He attributed the calls for her to run to the success of her programs, such as Hope Florida, which assists individuals on government welfare in transitioning back to work.
Casey DeSantis was a prominent figure on the campaign trail as her husband ran for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, garnering attention for her charisma and inspiring personal story as a cancer survivor. The couple’s young children often accompanied them to events, with supporters and political observers praising the first lady’s role in her husband’s campaign. Before becoming the First Lady of Florida, DeSantis had a career in television as a host, reporter, and anchor. In a 2023 interview with Fox News’ Harris Faulkner, she emphasized the importance of humility in her role as the state’s first lady, stating that her focus is on serving the people of Florida with humility.
Recent polls have indicated that Casey DeSantis would be a favored candidate for governor among Republicans if she were to enter the race to succeed her husband. A poll conducted by Florida Atlantic University and Mainstreet Research showed that 38% of Florida Republicans surveyed would support the first lady in a hypothetical matchup against Rep. Matt Gaetz, a prominent House conservative. Another survey by the University of North Florida Public Opinion Lab in November 2023 indicated that DeSantis had 22% support in a crowded field of potential GOP candidates, with 40% of respondents remaining undecided. Despite the favorable polling, Gov. DeSantis reiterated that his wife’s interest in entering the political arena remains virtually nonexistent.
The couple’s children were often seen accompanying them on the campaign trail, with supporters and observers praising Casey DeSantis’ role in her husband’s campaign due to her charisma and inspiring personal story as a cancer survivor. Before becoming the First Lady of Florida, DeSantis had a career in television as a host, reporter, and anchor. In a 2023 interview with Fox News’ Harris Faulkner, she defined her approach to the role with humility, emphasizing that it is not about her but about serving the people of the state and potentially the country. Despite the positive reception she has received, the First Lady has maintained that her interest in running for political office remains minimal, citing the challenges and “nonsense” that come with being a candidate.
While Casey DeSantis has garnered significant support in polls as a potential Republican candidate for governor, she has consistently downplayed any interest in entering the political arena. Gov. DeSantis cited his wife’s successful programs and accomplishments as reasons why some may see her as a suitable candidate. However, he reiterated that her current focus remains on her role as First Lady and family, and that any suggestions of her running for governor are based on her work and program successes rather than her own ambition. Despite the buzz surrounding her potential candidacy, Casey DeSantis has indicated that her interest in pursuing political office is minimal, emphasizing her commitment to serving the people of Florida with humility and dedication.
