Florida Governor Ron DeSantis reportedly disclosed his intention to assist in fundraising for Donald Trump’s presidential campaign during a private retreat last weekend, as revealed by sources familiar with the matter.
The disclosure took place at a private gathering on Saturday at South Florida’s Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, where DeSantis informed his allies of his decision to support Trump’s fundraising endeavors, according to insiders.
A spokesperson for DeSantis affirmed that the governor pledged his support to Republicans across various electoral levels, including the presidential race, upon withdrawing from his own presidential bid.
DeSantis’ announcement follows a period of strained relations with Trump, both before and after the Florida governor withdrew from the primary race in January. Despite DeSantis’ endorsement of Trump earlier this year, it remains uncertain whether Trump and his team seek DeSantis’ assistance or view him as an ally.
According to attendees, many of the fundraisers present at the Hard Rock event are expected to follow DeSantis’ lead and begin efforts to raise funds for Trump’s campaign.
In a subsequent interview, Texas businessman Roy Bailey, who previously served as co-chair of DeSantis’ national finance advisory board, expressed his intention to resume fundraising activities for Trump.
Roy Bailey affirmed his dedication, stating, “I will follow the governor’s lead and I will do anything that he or President Trump ask me to do to help him win this election.” He further expressed his intention to mobilize support from DeSantis supporters nationwide, emphasizing, “I know where there are DeSantis supporters all over Texas and all over the country that will want to help President Trump. So that’s what I’ll try to make happen.”
Regarding DeSantis’ fundraising plans, a Trump campaign adviser admitted they were unaware of them but stressed the importance of collective efforts to defeat Joe Biden and elect President Trump, stating, “everyone should be working towards defeating Joe Biden and electing President Trump.”
DeSantis’ donor retreat coincided with one of Trump’s significant fundraising events, where the campaign reported a record-breaking fundraising haul of $50.5 million.
DeSantis’ finance committee comprises influential fundraisers capable of mobilizing substantial financial support for Trump’s campaign.
While DeSantis and Trump were once political allies, their relationship faced challenges amid speculation of DeSantis considering a presidential run in 2024. Despite public disagreements, the recent disclosure suggests a potential reconciliation between the two figures.
