DeSantis’ political operation makes more moves ahead of expected 2024 campaign launch
It’s moving day in Tallahassee.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ political operation is moving from the Republican Party of Florida’s headquarters and into a new office in the state’s capital city.
The move will trigger new expenses for DeSantis’ soon-to-be announced presidential campaign that will need to be reported to the Federal Election Commission, which will result in the first formal public acknowledgment that the Republican governor is running for president, according to a source familiar with DeSantis’ plans. The move and its significance were first reported by NBC.
DeSantis’ team is not just moving furniture, it is also making moves on staff.
Bryan Griffin, DeSantis’ press secretary, announced Monday that he is leaving the governor’s office to serve the governor in a different capacity.
“I believe that Governor DeSantis is the only leader who can see us to victory at this critical moment in American history. Because of this, I am stepping away from this role to pursue other avenues of helping to deliver the governor’s success to our country,” Griffin said.
“If I can be even a small part of the revival and restoration of our great nation, then I am prepared to give it my all,” Griffin said.
DeSantis’ political team did not immediately respond to requests seeking comment.
In recent weeks, DeSantis has incrementally taken steps that hint his announcement is imminent.
On Saturday, the governor was in Iowa, home to the first GOP nominating context next year. There was also a bus operated by the independent Never Back Down political committee supporting the governor’s presidential aspirations, encouraging Iowans to “Join Team DeSantis for President.”
Ahead of his visit, the state’s Senate president and House majority leader endorsed him as a presidential candidate, the Des Moines Register reported, despite the fact that he isn’t yet in the race.
In the last week, the governor has been signing several of his legislative priorities at events across Florida, in an attempt to underscore how he plans to bring the “Florida blueprint” to the rest of the country.
This story was originally published May 15, 2023 at 4:41 PM.
