Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican candidate for the 2024 presidential election, recently made strong statements rejecting former President Donald Trump’s claim that he was the true winner of the 2020 presidential election.
In an interview with NBC News correspondent Dasha Burns, DeSantis emphasized that the winner of the presidential election is the individual who takes the oath on January 20 every four years, firmly acknowledging President Joe Biden as the legitimate winner.
DeSantis openly discussed his concerns about the previous presidential election, pointing out several issues he believed made it imperfect. However, when pressed further, he unequivocally stated that Trump had lost the election, reiterating, “No, of course he lost. Joe Biden’s the president.”
This outspoken stance by DeSantis comes at a time when Trump is facing legal charges related to his attempts to overturn the 2020 election results. Despite the ongoing legal battles, DeSantis refrained from attacking Trump over his legal troubles, instead emphasizing his opposition to a justice system that can be weaponized.
The Florida governor also touched upon the state’s new standards for teaching Black history to middle schoolers. While some provisions in the standards have faced criticism, DeSantis defended them, asserting that they were not politically motivated and were developed by a group of Black scholars. However, it’s worth noting that a majority of the members in the work group did not support the most controversial elements eventually released.
DeSantis’s comments on immigration have positioned him to the right of Trump, as he has supported the use of “lethal force” against migrants suspected of smuggling drugs. When questioned about distinguishing between good and bad actors at the border, DeSantis compared it to how police officers and those operating in Iraq have to make judgments in complex situations. Regarding abortion, DeSantis signed a six-week abortion ban into law in April. When asked if women should be punished for violating an abortion ban, he stated, “Not at all. No, I don’t think this is an issue about the woman.”
DeSantis emphasized the importance of providing support to women facing difficult circumstances and highlighted Florida’s efforts to offer assistance. He also stated his commitment to being a pro-life president while supporting access to contraception without limitations.
As DeSantis continues his presidential campaign, he navigates a complex political landscape, balancing his statements on the 2020 election, Black history standards, immigration, and abortion. The 2024 race remains competitive, with a diverse field of candidates vying for the nomination. How DeSantis’s stance on various issues resonates with voters will play a significant role in shaping the future of the Republican Party and the upcoming presidential election.
