As the political landscape continues to evolve, new polling data for the upcoming Governor’s race in Florida reveals an intriguing mix of support for potential candidates. However, one clear anomaly in recent polls is the public’s indecisiveness and the absence of several high-profile names, including the First Lady, Casey DeSantis, whose popularity has surged in recent years according to other polls.
Who’s Leading the Pack?
In a hypothetical race featuring Republican Representatives Byron Donalds, Matt Gaetz, Mike Waltz, and Democratic state Senator Shev Jones along with Representative Jared Moskowitz, the Ragnar Research Group survey conducted recently shows a significant portion of respondents, 55%, remain undecided. Gaetz emerged as the frontrunner with 12% support, trailed by Donalds and Moskowitz at 10% each. Jones and Waltz garnered 9% and 5% support, respectively.
Notable Absences
Interesting to note, the survey left out several potential candidates. Among them were Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nunez, Attorney General Ashley Moody, CFO Jimmy Patronis, and notably, First Lady Casey DeSantis. The latter, particularly, has demonstrated stronger polling numbers than any other Republican in previous surveys.
Casey DeSantis’ Rising Popularity
According to a June memo released by Florida Atlantic University, Casey DeSantis led a field of candidates with an impressive 43% support, well ahead of Donalds’ 19%, with Patronis and Gaetz even further behind. An April poll by FAU showed that if pitted head-to-head against Gaetz, 38% of 372 Florida Republicans would choose the First Lady, while Gaetz would receive only 16% support.
What Does This Mean for the Race?
These numbers suggest a significant lead for Casey DeSantis among potential Republican candidates, despite her not officially declaring her candidacy. The First Lady’s rising popularity could be attributed to the performance of her husband, Governor Ron DeSantis, as well as her own public service initiatives.
Despite this wave of support, Casey DeSantis has remained humble, attributing the enthusiasm around her potential candidacy to the work of her “rock star” husband. Ron DeSantis, on the other hand, has all but ruled out a 2026 run for his wife, stating in May that her interest in stepping into the political arena as a candidate is “zero”.
Conclusion
While the First Lady’s numbers are impressive, the ultimate decision lies in her hands. Will she throw her hat into the ring and capitalize on her popularity, or will she continue to support her husband’s political career from the sidelines? Only time will tell. For now, the Governor’s race remains open with no clear frontrunner, leaving Florida’s political future in a state of anticipation.
Regardless of the outcome, these polling numbers provide a fascinating insight into the minds of Florida’s voters and the potential shifts we may see in the state’s political landscape in the coming years. It’s clear that the race for Governor is going to be one to watch.
