Florida’s First Lady, Casey DeSantis, is seriously considering running for governor in the 2026 elections, according to sources close to a meeting of Republican donors held last week in Palm Beach County. This move would mark a milestone in Florida’s politics, as her husband, Governor Ron DeSantis, faces term limits and cannot seek re-election.
Republican donors push for Casey DeSantis’ candidacy
For years, there has been speculation about whether Casey DeSantis, a key figure in her husband’s campaigns, would make the leap into active politics. However, this time the rumors seem to have a stronger foundation. “I would say this: I’ve heard that donors have been urging her to run, and while it’s not something she’s wanted to do, at least they’re making her stop and listen,” commented a source close to her circle.
The potential candidacy of Casey DeSantis would not only impact Florida’s political landscape but also have repercussions at the national level. Her entry into the 2026 Republican primaries could trigger a power struggle between Governor Ron DeSantis and President Donald Trump, who remains an influential figure in the party.
Domino effects on Florida and national politics
Another Republican who has openly expressed interest in running for governor is Representative Byron Donalds, a close ally of Trump. Alongside Donalds, Florida’s Agriculture Commissioner, Wilton Simpson, is also believed to be considering a run. Although Simpson does not have the national profile of Casey DeSantis or Donalds, he is a well-known state-elected official in Florida, with over $30 million already raised from previous fundraising campaigns.
Originally, Governor Ron DeSantis wanted former Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, a long-time ally, to run for governor. However, he ultimately decided to appoint her to a Senate seat that became vacant when Trump chose Marco Rubio as his Secretary of State.
With Moody out of the picture, Ron DeSantis was forced to find another candidate aligned with his vision. “The governor sees his wife as his best chance to establish the state’s future leaders and prevent a governorship by Simpson or Donalds,” explained another source close to the matter. “That’s what ultimately opened him up to a Casey candidacy.”
Casey DeSantis has expressed gratitude for the support she has received. “When people talk about my candidacy for governor, I think it speaks very well of the governor himself,” she said in an interview on the Conservative Review podcast in May. “I think when people see me, it’s because they’re very happy with everything this governor has done for the state of Florida.”
So far, Casey DeSantis has not been reached for additional comments on her potential candidacy. However, a source close to her circle stated, “She will run. I think most people see it that way now. There’s a lot to figure out, but right now the rumors aren’t just that—they feel very real.”
The potential candidacy of Casey DeSantis promises to redefine Florida’s political future and keep the DeSantis family at the center of the national stage.
