Casey DeSantis: A Potential Contender for Florida's Governorship

Florida's First Lady, Casey DeSantis, is reportedly contemplating a run for the state's governorship in 2026, according to sources close to the matter. Although speculation about her potential candidacy has circulated for some time, the possibility seems to be gaining traction. At a Republican donor meeting in Palm Beach County last week, the topic of Casey DeSantis entering the gubernatorial race was openly discussed.

With her husband, current Governor Ron DeSantis, unable to seek re-election due to term limits, there's been significant debate about his possible successor. This has led to growing interest in Casey DeSantis as a potential candidate.

Donor Influence and Political Calculations

According to reports from NBC News, certain donors have been encouraging Casey DeSantis to consider running. "Although it wasn't something she had seriously considered, the donors have managed to get her to pause and listen," revealed a source familiar with the situation.

Casey DeSantis entering the Republican primaries could reshape Florida's political landscape, even affecting the dynamics between her husband and former President Donald Trump. Currently, Representative Byron Donalds, a close ally of Trump, has shown interest in the governorship. Additionally, it is believed that Wilton Simpson, Florida's Agriculture Commissioner, is contemplating his own candidacy. While Simpson may not share the national recognition of Casey DeSantis or Donalds, he remains an influential figure within the state, boasting over $30 million in campaign funds.

Ron DeSantis' Shift in Support

Initially, Ron DeSantis supported former Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody as the best candidate to defeat Donalds. However, Moody was appointed to a Senate position following Trump's decision to nominate Marco Rubio as Secretary of State. This development prompted DeSantis to reassess his options, ultimately concluding that his wife was the best choice to secure Florida's political future under his vision.

"The governor views Casey as the ideal candidate to continue his legacy and prevent figures like Simpson or Donalds from gaining power," a close source indicated.

Casey DeSantis Addresses Speculation

In a May interview with the Conservative Review Podcast, Casey DeSantis indirectly responded to speculation regarding her potential candidacy. "When people talk about me as a gubernatorial candidate, I think it reflects the incredible work Ron has done," she stated. "He is a rock star, and Floridians are immensely proud of his achievements," she added. Despite the mounting rumors, Casey DeSantis has yet to make any official comments about her possible run.

A Cancer Survivor's Journey

In October 2021, Ron DeSantis announced that his wife Casey had been diagnosed with breast cancer. By March 2022, after undergoing surgery and treatment, she was declared "cancer-free," with Ron DeSantis expressing gratitude for the support received since revealing Casey's diagnosis. The couple, married in 2010, has three children: Madison, aged four; Mason, aged three; and Mamie, just over a year and a half old, who was the first baby born in the governor's mansion in Tallahassee in over 50 years.

Originally from Ohio, Casey DeSantis holds a degree in Economics from the University of Charleston. Her career as a television producer, host, and reporter earned her an Emmy Award. She is also a three-time national equestrian champion in the U.S. As Florida's First Lady, she has launched several state initiatives, including "Hope Florida, A Pathway to Prosperity," promoting personal prosperity for Floridians. She has also partnered with sports teams and athletes statewide to address the stigma surrounding mental health.