2024 Presidential Campaign Blog

Bob Vander Plaats Endorses Ron DeSantis for President

Bob Vander Plaats Endorses Ron DeSantis for President
FAMiLY Leader CEO and President has endorsed the last three Iowa Caucus winners in competitive GOP primaries

DES MOINES, Iowa – Ron DeSantis today secured the endorsement of faith leader and Iowa Caucus kingmaker, Bob Vander Plaats. As President and CEO of The FAMiLY Leader, Vander Plaats holds significant sway over Iowa’s evangelical community and beyond. He correctly picked the winner of the Iowa Caucus in 2008, 2012, and 2016.

“As I’ve made my way through 98 of Iowa’s 99 counties, Iowans have shared what a critical role Bob Vander Plaats plays in engaging Iowa’s faith community in the key battles that matter,” Ron DeSantis said. “His support tells Iowans they can trust me to fight and win for them. We’re thrilled to have Bob and Darla on Team DeSantis and are thankful for their friendship as we’ve gotten to know them throughout this campaign. The road to America’s revival starts in Iowa, and we will get the job done.”

“I'm thrilled to throw my personal endorsement and support behind Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida,” Vander Plaats said in an exclusive interview with Bret Baier on Fox New’s Special Report. He continued, “We need to find somebody who can win in 2024. And what we saw in 2022, the supposedly 'red wave' really only happened in Florida and in Iowa. Governor DeSantis took a reliable toss up state in Florida and made it complete red, won by 20 points, won in demographics that we haven't won in. But he's also done that by being a bold and courageous leader. So right away, it was kind of his endorsement to lose but as you know, Bret, in Iowa, they go to church with us, they're in our homes, they come to our offices, the leadership summit. But at last Friday's Thanksgiving Family Forum, he closed the sale on me. He was very clear about, we need a president who can serve two terms, not one term. We don't need a president that's going to be a lame duck on day one. You need a president that is going to surround themselves with the best and brightest people versus having a hard time attracting them again. And someone who's actually going to do what they say they're going to do. And I just think he's got the spine to do it and I think he's got the experience to win for us.”

Bob Vander Plaats’ support comes just after DeSantis secured the historic endorsement of Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds – the first time since 1996 that a sitting Iowa governor has endorsed in the Republican presidential primary. In August, influential Iowa radio host Steve Deace also endorsed DeSantis.

During this campaign cycle, Bob Vander Plaats:
• Took Ron and Casey DeSantis to his church in Des Moines
• Visited the Florida Governor's Mansion for lunch with Ron and Casey DeSantis
• Hosted a podcast with DeSantis
• Interviewed DeSantis at his Thanksgiving Family Forum
• Joined Ron and Casey DeSantis at the Pulse Life Advocates Christmas Gala

At the FAMiLY Leader Thanksgiving Family Forum, Ron DeSantis said, “What you see in Iowa, are people that believe in this country, have faith in God, understand the importance of family, and work hard to provide a better life for themselves and their family. And that's the core of what we need to reverse the decline of this country.”

Since announcing his candidacy for president, DeSantis has:
• Visited 98 of Iowa’s 99 counties with one more to go before the Iowa caucus;
• Earned endorsements from 41 Iowa state legislators (more than any candidate in the race);
• Earned support from over 100 Iowa faith leaders
• Earned endorsements from 26 Iowa Sheriffs
• Received the support of 120 county chairs with at least one in each of Iowa’s 99 counties;
• Built the support of 30,000 Iowans committed to caucus for him; and
• Made over 130 stops in the Hawkeye State.

Number of Faith Leaders Supporting DeSantis in Iowa Grows to Over 100 Strong

Number of Faith Leaders Supporting DeSantis in Iowa Grows to Over 100 Strong
52 additional Iowa faith leaders join Ron Desantis’ National Faith and Family Coalition

DES MOINES, IOWA – Ron DeSantis today announced 52 additional Iowa faith leaders have joined his national Faith and Family Coalition, bringing the total number of Iowa faith leaders supporting him to over 100.

DeSantis launched the Faith and Family coalition in Des Moines in September. Since then, support for DeSantis within the faith community has grown because of his unwavering commitment to standing for life, religious liberties, and family values.

“Ron DeSantis is the right man for this moment to lead America’s revival, and I am pleased to give him my full support. Our nation needs a leader who will stand firm in his principles and put God above government. Ron DeSantis’ bold record as governor of Florida proves he will never waver in the fight for what’s right,” said Pastor Earl Beal, Joy Baptist Church in Lee County.

“I am proud to join the Faith & Family Coalition supporting and praying for Ron DeSantis as he seeks the office of President of the United States. He is a courageous leader who will always put the people he serves, not himself, and is the only candidate in this race who we can trust to stand firm with the faith community on the issues that matter most, from protecting life to defending religious liberties. That is exactly the leadership our nation needs,” said Pastor Monte Knudsen, Faith Christian Outreach Church in Henry County.

“I have thought and prayed about who is the right person to lead our country and believe fully that the right person is Ron DeSantis. He is an ally to the faith community here in Iowa, will stand firm for the truth, and I know that as president, his faith will continue to be his anchor. I am proud to join his Faith & Family Coalition and look forward to caucusing for him in January,” said Pastor Darran Whiting, Liberty Baptist Church in Linn County.

DeSantis’ Faith and Family Coalition is helping spread his message to put God above government as well as build support for the actions he will take as president to defend religious freedom, allow people of faith to flourish, and advance the culture of life.

The full list of Iowa DeSantis’ Faith and Family Coalition leaders is below:

Pastor Kendall Adams, Burlington Baptist Church (Des Moines)
Pam Adams, Burlington Baptist Church (Des Moines)
Dale Akkerman, Development Director at Timothy Christian School (Grundy) 
Pastor Bryan Anderson, Tabernacle Baptist Church (Lyon) 
Rachel Anderson, Tabernacle Baptist Church (Lyon)
Jeff Arrandale, Christian Singer/Songwriter and Worship Leader (Warren)
Pastor Mike Augsburger, Soteria Church (Polk)
Pastor Gary Axtell, Grace Baptist Church (Madison) 
Kathleen Banowetz, Head of Prayer Team (Linn)
Pastor Earl Beal, Joy Baptist Church (Lee)
Kathy Beal, Joy Baptist Church (Lee)
Zia Bingaman, First Church of the Open Bible Des Moines (Polk)
Pastor Dan Bittinger, CrossPointe Church (Woodbury)
Marlin Bontrager, Bontrager Family Singers (Washington)
Becky Bontrager, Bontrager Family Singers (Washington)
Pastor Joseph Brown, Marion Avenue Baptist Church (Washington) 
Charity Brown, Marion Avenue Baptist Church (Washington)
Pastor David Bush, Fit For The King Ministry (Polk)
Pastor Mark Cannon, Hope Baptist Church (Scott)
Martin A. Cannon, National Pro-Life Trial Lawyer (Pottawattamie)
Deacon Doug Chervek, Adelphi Calvary Baptist Church (Polk)
Tricia Chervek, Adelphi Calvary Baptist Church (Polk)
Pastor Dave Childers (Polk)
Pastor Simeon Counterman, Calvary Baptist Church (Des Moines)
Bonnie Counterman, Calvary Baptist Church (Des Moines)
Robert Cramer, Former Chair of The FAMiLY LEADER (Dallas)
Pastor Brad Cranston, Iowa Baptists for Biblical Values (Des Moines)
Heidi Cranston, Iowa Baptists for Biblical Values (Des Moines)
Pastor Sean Cully (Dallas)
Pastor Rick David (Linn) 
Sherry David, Ministry Leader (Linn) 
Pastor Rex Deckard, Calvary Des Moines (Polk)
Pastor Bob Deever, Former Pastor of Grace West Church (Polk)
Shannon Demastus, Fort Des Moines Church of Christ (Polk)
Pastor Brett Denham, Monticello Baptist Church (Jones)
Maggie DeWitte, Executive Director of Pulse Life Advocates* (Dallas)
Gwendy Doland, Youth and Women’s Small Group Leader at New Hope Christian Church (Tama) 
Pastor Mark Doland, Church of Christ (Tama) 
Pastor & Rep. Jon Dunwell
Pastor Kirk Evans, Indianola Church of Christ (Warren)
Andy Folkmann, Calvary Community Church (Linn)
Janice Fricke, Triumphant Church (Buchanan) 
Pastor Lance Fricke, Triumphant Church (Buchanan) 
Evangelist Caleb Garraway, Remnant Ministries (Washington) 
Pastor Ed Grant, Senior Pastor of Thrive Church (Warren)
Senator Jesse Green, Bible Class Teacher at Trinity Lutheran (Boone) 
Pastor Michael Griswold, Marion Avenue Baptist Church (Washington) 
John Grzywacz, Volunteer for Pulse Life Advocates* (Story)
Kim Grzywacz, Treasurer of the Board for Pulse Life Advocates* (Story)
Bob Hager, Former Director of Living Stone (Allamakee)
Pastor Doug Harris, Pella Open Bible Church (Marion)
Mary Jo Harty, Board Member of Pulse Life Advocates* (Polk)
Minister Matthew Haynie, Ogden Church of Christ (Boone) 
Pastor Jessten Heimer, Trinity Lutheran Church and School (Boone) 
Brooke Higgins, Women’s Ministry Teacher at Calvary Community Church (Linn) 
Pastor Jeremy Higgins, Calvary Community Church (Linn) 
Pastor Kerry Jech, New Hope Christian Church (Marshall)
Pastor Tim Johnson, Wapello Methodist Church (Louisa)
Shari Kastein, Elder, First Reformed Church (Lyon)
David Klang, Treasurer of Hanford Church (Cerro Gordo)
Pastor Monte Knudsen, Faith Christian Outreach Church (Henry)
Pastor Abe Koehn, Marion Avenue Baptist Church (Washington) 
Pastor John Koopman (Palo Alto)
Brittany Koopman, St. Paul's Lutheran Church & Peace Lutheran Church
Tom Law, Calvary Community Church (Linn)
Pastor Matt Magee, Oak Grove Church (Benton) 
Pastor Dave Martin, Faith Assembly of God (Marshall)
Pastor Edward Mast, Old Paths Baptist Church (Dubuque)
Tammy Mast, Old Paths Baptist Church (Dubuque)
Pastor Ed Matthews, Bible Baptist Church (Wapello) 
Whitney Smith McIntosh, Board Member for Pulse Life Advocates (Polk)
Pastor Randy Miller, Pleasantville Baptist Church (Marion)
Vicki Miller, Pleasantville Baptist Church (Marion)
Pastor Jesse Newman (Polk)
Taya Hirschy, Heartland Church (Polk)
Pastor Harerimana Nshoreyingabo, Redeemed Fellowship Center (Polk) 
Alan Ostergren, Conservative Attorney (Polk)
Pastor Zac Patke, Calvary Baptist Church (O'Brien)
Hannah Patke, Calvary Baptist Church (O'Brien)
Pastor Alfonso Perez, Miracle Life Family Church (Polk) 
Pastor Marcial Perez, New Dawn Ministries (Polk) 
Pastor Terry Pollard, Eastside Church of Nazarene (Polk) 
Tom Quiner, President of the Board for Pulse Life Advocates* (Polk)
Pastor Andres Reyes, First Baptist Church (Dallas)
Pastor Tim Ried, Associate Pastor, Bethel Baptist Church (Buena Vista)
Sean Sanford, Youth Leader and Small Group Leader (Linn) 
Pastor Joyce Schmidt, St. Olaf Lutheran Church (Humboldt) 
Tim Schmidt, St. Olaf Lutheran Church (Humboldt)
Pastor Dave Schneider (Polk)
Pastor Anna Schneider (Polk)
Jean Smith, Secretary of the Board for Pulse Life Advocates* (Polk)
Dr. Dave Smith, Evangelist sent out by Liberty Baptist Church (Linn)
Shonna Smith, Wife of Evangelist (Linn)
Pastor Scott Sokol (Hancock) 
Pastor Kevin Subra, SonRise Baptist Church (Polk)
Scott Thompson, Elder (Winnebago)
Lori Tiangco, Children's Ministry at First Church of the Open Bible Des Moines (Polk)
Loren Tiangco, Worship Team at First Church of the Open Bible Des Moines (Polk)
Brenda Vanhofwegen, VP of Women’s Ministry, First Reformed Church (Lyon)
Deacon Rob Vanhofwegen, First Reformed Church (Lyon)
Pastor John Vermeer, Doon United Reformed Church (Lyon) 
Pastor Larry Wallingford, Living Waters Assembly of God (Lee)
Matt Wells, Lay Leader at Marion Avenue Baptist Church (Washington) 
Pastor Leslie White, CrossFire Church (Fayette)
Pastor Darran Whiting, Liberty Baptist Church (Linn)
Ronda Whiting, Liberty Baptist Church (Linn)
Reverend Shane Wilson, Iglesia Espiritu y Verdad (Polk)
Pastor Chad Welch, First Baptist Church (Van Buren) 

*For identification purposes only

Ron DeSantis Campaign Releases New TV Ad Featuring Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds: “Endorsement”

DeSantis Campaign Releases New TV Ad Featuring Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds: “Endorsement”
Reynolds: “Ron DeSantis is the person that we need leading this country.”

DES MOINES, Iowa – The Ron DeSantis for President campaign today released a new 30-second television ad titled, “Endorsement,” highlighting Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds’ own words about her historic support for Ron DeSantis. Reynolds is the first sitting Iowa governor to endorse in a contested Republican presidential primary since 1996.

Part of the campaign's previously announced ad buy in Iowa through Caucus Day, “Endorsement,” will air on broadcast and cable television across the state. The ad comes as the DeSantis campaign this week moved one-third of its staff to Iowa and will open its Iowa headquarters in Des Moines later this week.

TRANSCRIPT:

Kim Reynolds: “We need someone who puts this country first and not himself. Ron DeSantis is the person that we need leading this country. He is probably the most effective leader that I know. I am so proud to give him my full support and endorsement.”

Ron DeSantis: “I will fight for you. I will win for you. And I will lead America’s revival.”

BACKGROUND
• The DeSantis for President campaign initially announced a $2 million ad reservation that was planned to begin in mid-November and last through the January 15 Iowa Caucus. The campaign instead released the first TV ad on November 1st, earlier than expected.

• Reynolds first joined Ron DeSantis in Iowa in March 2022 during his first visit to the state. Reynolds introduced DeSantis at his presidential launch event in Des Moines, DeSantis joined Reynolds for her Fairside Chat series at the Iowa State Fair in August, and Reynolds joined Florida's First Lady Casey DeSantis to officially launch DeSantis' national coalition, " Mamas for DeSantis."

• Since announcing his candidacy for president, DeSantis has:
o Visited 92 of Iowa's 99 counties (and will visit all 99 before the caucus);
o Earned endorsements from 41 state legislators (more than any candidate in the race); and 120 county-level chairs (at least one in each of the state’s 99 counties).
o Has made over 100 stops in the Hawkeye State.

• DeSantis and Reynolds are strong conservative leaders who have taken decisive action to help the people of their states. Both governors have:
o Championed universal school choice (Reynolds and DeSantis);
o Protected parents' rights (Reynolds and DeSantis);
o Enacted meaningful tax reform (Reynolds and DeSantis);
o Run budget surpluses (Reynolds and DeSantis);
o Kept their states open during COVID lockdowns (Reynolds and DeSantis);
o Signed Heartbeat legislation to protect life (Reynolds and DeSantis);
o Stood for law and order (Reynolds and DeSantis);
o Took action to protect our southern border (Reynolds and DeSantis);
o Protected women and fairness in sports (Reynolds and DeSantis);

Three Presidential Candidates Confirm for Thanksgiving FAMiLY Forum in in Des Moines, Iowa, on November 17, 2023

THREE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES CONFIRM FOR 2023 THANKSGIVING FAMiLY FORUM
Unique event to welcome DeSantis, Haley, and Ramaswamy for roundtable discussion

Urbandale, IOWA – The FAMiLY Leader Foundation is pleased to announce that three Republican candidates for president have confirmed participation in The 2023 Presidential Thanksgiving FAMiLY Forum at the Des Moines Mariott Downtown in Des Moines, Iowa, on Nov. 17, 2023, from 3:30-6:00 p.m.: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Former U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley, and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy.

Former President Donald Trump was invited but has not accepted the invitation. U.S. Sen. Tim Scott was also issued an invitation, but after suspending his campaign, will not be appearing.

The Thanksgiving FAMiLY Forum is a unique event on the political calendar – an evening where the invitees gather around a table, instead of standing at podiums, for what is described as "a family discussion with presidential candidates," moderated by The FAMiLY Leader President and CEO Bob Vander Plaats.

"Truly this is a one-of-a-kind event," says Vander Plaats. "The Thanksgiving FAMiLY Forum gives us a chance to see what's in the candidates' hearts, not just what's in their plans. And coming shortly before the holiday season, it may be the last, best chance to really understand what makes these leaders tick before Iowa's first-in-the-nation caucuses.

"At this pivotal moment in our nation’s history, it’s vital that we look beyond politics to leadership that will move our country forward," adds Vander Plaats. "This year’s Forum provides a unique opportunity to learn and discern, as Americans prepare to choose well in the upcoming 2024 Election and beyond."

This marks the The FAMiLY Leader Foundation’s third such Forum, with similar events in both the 2011 and 2015 election cycles drawing thousands of attendees and hundreds of media outlets.

The 2023 Presidential Thanksgiving FAMiLY Forum and its honored guests are being brought to Iowa by The FAMiLY Leader Foundation’s #ChooseWell2024 initiative and its cornerstone partners: Family Policy Alliance, First Liberty Institute, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, and The Heritage Foundation, and the Forum’s premier sponsor, Sukup Manufacturing Co.

For more information about The 2023 Presidential Thanksgiving FAMiLY Forum, visit
https://www.thefamilyleader.com/tff23

Ron DeSantis Earns 18 Additional New Hampshire Endorsements

DeSantis Earns 18 Additional New Hampshire Endorsements in Sign of Growing Grassroots Momentum
DeSantis now boasts 100 state and local endorsements

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - In a sign of growing grassroots momentum, Ron DeSantis added 18 state and local endorsements in New Hampshire, including state representatives Joe Guthrie (R-Hampstead), Travis O’Hara (R-Belmont), and Walter “Terry” Spilsbury (R-Charlestown). DeSantis has now earned the endorsements of 65 state legislators and a total of 100 state and local endorsements in the Granite State.

"Ron DeSantis is a tested fiscal conservative, exactly what our country needs at this critical time. Evidence of his responsible leadership is clear: in Florida, he reduced regulation, kept spending and taxes low, and retired 25% of state debt. To ensure that fiscal responsibility remains the New Hampshire way, I ran for public office; and, to ensure this type of leadership at the federal government also, I'm proud to endorse Ron DeSantis for President," said Rep. Spilsbury.

"Republicans need a leader who can win again. Ron DeSantis's stunning 20-point victory in Florida last year is what we need to elect Republicans up and down the ballot to turn our country around. From resisting Dr. Fauci's COVID lockdowns to expanding the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens, Governor DeSantis's strong conservative record separates him from the rest of the field, and that's why I'm proud to endorse Ron DeSantis for President," said Rep. O'Hara.

DeSantis unveiled his New Hampshire Veterans Coalition Leadership Team last month. In September, faith leaders in New Hampshire joined DeSantis’ Faith and Freedom Coalition.

A list of the new endorsements is below:
1• State Representative Joe Guthrie (R-Hampstead) - Rockingham District 15
2• State Representative Travis O'Hara (R-Belmont) - Belknap District 4
3• State Representative Walter “Terry” Spilsbury (R-Charlestown) - Sullivan District 3
4• Former State Representative Tim Comerford (R-Fremont)
5• Former State Representative Linda Rea Camarota (R-Bedford)
6• Scott Maltzie, Former Merrimack County GOP Chair
7• Richard Merkt, Former Cheshire County GOP Chair
8• Jude Augusta, NH GOP Seacoast Activist
9• Dennis Hogan, Former Hillsborough County Attorney
10• Lisa Withrow, Salem Town Councilor
11• Skip Gilman, Rochester City Councilor
12• Sara Eames, Rochester Ward 4 Moderator
13• Donna Bogan, Former Rochester City Councilor
14• Ray Gorman, Coos County Commissioner and Colebrook Selectman
15• Marilyn Huston, Former Cheshire County GOP Chair
16• Bill Beauregard, Former Cheshire County GOP Chair
17• Robert Theberge, Coos County Commissioner
18• Thomas Estey, Owner of Estey’s Country Store in Londonderry

Ron DeSantis Notches 24 Additional Iowa Endorsements

DeSantis Notches 24 Additional Iowa Endorsements After Debate Victory  
State-level endorsements follow historic backing from Governor Kim Reynolds, growing list of grassroots support  

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Following a historic endorsement from Governor Kim Reynolds and a debate victory earlier this week, Ron DeSantis added 24 state-level endorsements in Iowa from 20 different counties, a testament to his growing momentum in the Hawkeye State.  

DeSantis, who is back on the campaign trail in Iowa today, has the support of 41 current state legislators, as well as 120 county chairs across the state. He is the only candidate who is committed to completing the “Full Grassley” tour by visiting all 99 counties and has spent time in 88 so far.  

"I know that Iowa's farmers and producers deserve a candidate that can fight our battles in Washington. The Republican Party needs a candidate that will bring the party together and win, and I believe Ron DeSantis is that person and that is why I have endorsed him," said Craig Hill, Past President of the Iowa Farm Bureau.  

“He is a fit, mentally sharp, energetic candidate and would be eligible for a second term unlike President Donald Trump. The country is weary of the chaos that would mark another Trump term. In my opinion, DeSantis is the best Republican candidate to win the presidency. I hope my friends will support him in the Iowa caucuses as I will,” said former Iowa Congressman Greg Ganske.
 
A list of the new endorsements is below:  

• Former Congressman Greg Ganske (Polk)  
• Craig Hill, Past President of the Iowa Farm Bureau (Warren)  
• Steve Cundiff, Deputy Sheriff (Clinton)  
• Tim Fridolph, City Councilman (Montgomery)  
• Jean Gross, Secretary of Delaware County GOP (Delaware)  
• Bob Hager, Former State Representative (Allamakee)  
• Barbara Hovland, President of Northern IA Republican Women* (Cerro Gordo)  
• Michael Kaldenberg, Co-Chair of Jasper County GOP (Jasper)  
• Steve Knapp, County Supervisor (Ringgold)  
• Charles Lazenby, Keosauqua City Council (Van Buren)  
• Jeff Madlom, County Supervisor (Delaware)  
• Jeromy Mouw, Spirit Lake School Board (Dickinson)  
• Scott Nelson, County Attorney (Dubuque)  
• Jill Ozuna, County Auditor (Montgomery)  
• Ray Peterson, County Supervisor (Clayton)  
• Tim Recker, Past President of Iowa Corn (Fayette)  
• Richard Rogers, Board Member, Iowa Firearms Coalition (Polk)  
• Tim Schmidt, Mayor of Garner (Hancock)  
• Karen Schuster, Longtime GOP Activist (Polk)  
• Ron Slagle, Police Officer, Veteran, Co-founder of Honor and Respect (Linn)  
• Kathy Smith, Wife of slain Law Enforcement Officer Sgt. Jim Smith (Buchanan)  
• Brant Smothers, Former Poweshiek County GOP Chair (Poweshiek)  
• Kyle Stecker, County Supervisor (Kossuth)  
• Sandy Wieser, Shelby County GOP Secretary (Shelby)  
*Title for identification purposes only  

DeSantis boasts over 330 state-level endorsements, more than any other candidate in the race, in an impressive show of the strength and grassroots enthusiasm DeSantis is building across the country.

Ron DeSantis for President Announces Additional Endorsements from State Legislators Including Minnesota State Representative Elliott Engen

Ron DeSantis for President Announces Additional Endorsements from State Legislators Across the Country

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Following Wednesday’s debate victory, the Ron DeSantis for President campaign today announced a dozen additional endorsements from state legislators across the country.

• Tennessee State Senator Adam Lowe
• Tennessee State Representative and Republican Caucus Chair Ryan Williams
• Maine State Senator Brad Farrin
• Kansas State Representative Brett Fairchild
• Montana State Senator Daniel Zolnikov
• Massachusetts State Senator-elect Peter Durant
• Indiana State Representative Robert Heaton
• Indiana State Representative Shane Lindauer
• Indiana State Representative Chris Jeter       
• Pennsylvania State Senator Greg Rothman   
• Ohio State Representative Adam Mathews      
• Minnesota State Representative Elliott Engen

Minnesota State Representative Elliot Engen said:
“Governor Ron DeSantis is the future of the Republican Party. As a State Representative in a purple state, I know Governor DeSantis will provide the leadership and support our party needs to win across America without sacrificing bold, conservative policy.”

Montana State Senator Daniel Zolnikov:
“With the world on fire, America needs a serious leader for a serious time. Only Ron DeSantis has shown the courage, steadfastness, and ability to govern that our nation deserves."

Massachusetts State Senator-elect Peter Durant:
“For the last decade, the Republican Party has lost too much at too great a cost for everyday Americans. I’m proud to have won an upset victory for the State Senate, and proud to stand with Governor Ron DeSantis because I know he will continue to deliver victories for conservative principles.”
DeSantis boasts over 330 state-level endorsements, more than any other candidate in the race, in an impressive show of the strength and grassroots enthusiasm DeSantis is building across the country.
###

Release: Ron DeSantis Wins Third GOP Debate

Ron DeSantis Wins Third GOP Debate
“WINS the battle.” “Presidential demeanor.” “Really asserted himself.” “Won the debate.”

Daily Mail: Ron DeSantis WINS the battle with Nikki Haley in Daily Mail poll of the battle in the third Republican presidential debate

Shaquille Brewster, MSNBC : In this room full of Iowans who all say they plan to caucus in January, I asked if Kim Reynolds' endorsement earlier this week of Ron DeSantis had any impact on how they're viewing the candidates, specifically Ron DeSantis, and nearly everyone in that room raised their hand and said they view him more favorably. They like their governor. They appreciate the record that she had, and what she has been able to do in this state and they say it is at least making them a little bit more interested in Ron DeSantis. I’ll also say, when I asked should Donald trump be on that stage, that was another moment, one of the few moments you had broad consensus and nearly everyone raised their hand and said they believe he should be on that debate stage.

Lee Carter, Fox News: DeSantis got a “B” from Democrats, Independents a “B” and Republicans an “A.” I think this is shocking to see Democrats give any a Republican an “A.” I don’t think I’ve ever seen it either. I will tell you this, Democrats are tired of TikTok polluting their children’s minds.

Ainsley Earhardt, Fox News: I thought Ron DeSantis did great because he was very measured.

Lawrence Jones, Fox News: It was Ron DeSantis’ best debate performance.

Mornings with Maria Panel: CHERYL: Daily Mail did a quick overnight snap poll .. it was who won the debate. 56% said DeSantis, 35% said Nikki Haley. But who can beat Trump? They said DeSantis 53%, Haley 29%. They actually came in with commentary and said that DeSantis based on what we just listened to about how he would handle Israel. he came across this quote unquote, presidential.
MARIA: He did well on that for sure.
TIARA: It was definitely a cleaner performance from DeSantis.

Marissa Parra, MSNBC: I do notice among veterans there have a particular amount of support for DeSantis, fellow veteran himself. What I thought was interesting last night, we had a watch party, a local gop debate watch party, and I talked to the room, I made my rounds around the room, and once again we found exactly the same, most of the room seemed to be behind DeSantis or Trump.

Faulkner Focus Voter Panel: VOTER: I feel that DeSantis really asserted himself and he gave presidential demeanor to him...I think DeSantis really did assert himself and looked the most presidential on stage yesterday.

Ainsley Earhardt, Fox News: Ron DeSantis, how about this line … He said if someone in a drug cartel is sneaking fentanyl in across the border that’s going to be the last thing they do. We are going to shoot them stone cold dead.

Brian Kilmeade, Fox News: The Governor just comes off competent. The criticism on him, I have no problem with – oh, he’s got to smile and be warmer … he wants to solve your problems. He does go in there, what is the problem? I want to solve it .. Here’s the issue here’s how to handle it.

Fox News Panel: EARHARDT: [DeSantis] talked about Trump, he said he always says you’re going to be sick of winning. He said, well we saw last night, talking about the elections in Virginia and elsewhere, I am sick of Republicans losing.
DOOCY: It was a good line.
EARHARDT: It was.

Matt Whitlock: Ron DeSantis has a plan to modernize the navy down to the number of ships he wants to build. Donald Trump could never.

Release: What They Are Saying: Ron DeSantis Wins the Third Presidential Debate

What They Are Saying: Ron DeSantis Wins the Third Presidential Debate

Rep. Chip Roy: I thought Governor DeSantis did an excellent job. It's not surprising, obviously, I've supported him, I endorsed him... You know what I care about? As a governor, DeSantis is actually solving problems. After hurricanes, he actually gets Florida moving again. He's actually standing up and kicking China out of Florida. he actually won by a million and a half votes. You don't have to worry about what's happening in Maricopa County, you don’t have to worry about what's happening in Fulton County, Georgia, you don't have to worry about what's happening in Miami Dade County, and whether you get 5000 votes dumped in the ballot if you win by a million and a half votes. And that's the difference. And you know, people nitpick and look at all these little things and head bobs, and you know, I want to see results. Our country is teetering on the edge. And I want to see somebody who can actually get stuff done. And Governor DeSantis has been kicking butt in Florida, and actually his answers were dead on. And I believe him when he says he will take on the cartels at the border. I believe him when he says we'll actually use remittances to pay for the wall on the border instead of coming up with excuses to why you didn't actually make Mexico pay for it.

Iowa Voter: I really liked the way that Ron DeSantis came out, I think, much stronger in this debate than he did in the first one. I liked his answers that were very direct. They were very understandable. I liked that his military background came out. I still swing back to Donald Trump who kept peace for four years. And he was very, very strong in keeping peace. I like that. I think that Ron DeSantis could actually do the same thing for us. You know, if he were elected.

Kurt Schlicter, Townhall: This is clearly the best and most substantive of all the GOP debates. I think Ron DeSantis is winning by carving out a unique vision that is not the establishment answer. It is also not crazy. I think Vivek is annoying people. I think Nikki is having a good night. Christie is just off. #GOPDebate

Scott Jennings, CNN Commentator: Strong open from DeSantis... #gopdebate

Pete Snyder: What a past few days — Gov. @KimReynoldsIA endorsement, 88/99 counties hit in IA and another Presidential performance and 3rd debate win for @GovRonDeSantis. Doing the work to win. #RNCDebate

Scott Morefield: Ron DeSantis goes scorched earth on the Federal Reserve. The Fed should focus on stable prices. They are not an economic central planner for the American people.

Ann Coulter: ONLY DESANTIS WILL BUILD A WALL AND DEPORT THE MILLIONS AND MILLIONS OF ILLEGALS BIDEN IS BRINGING IN.

Miranda Devine: DeSantis great on the border: “I’m going to stop the invasion cold.”

Marcel Teloma: I’ve seen enough: Ron DeSantis won the debate, and it was not close.

Guy Benson, Townhall: Terrific opening answer from DeSantis

David M. Drucker, Dispatch: DeSantis made a funny. Legit

Iowa Governor Kim Reyolds: If you like what we are doing in Iowa - you’ll like @RonDeSantis’ vision for this country. It’s about delivering results and pushing the conservative movement forward again! #GOPDebate

Chris Loesch: DeSantis won in the substance again. The Vifake astroturf will always love his skeevy used car salesman vibe because they are paid to. Vote appropriately.

Naomi Lim: Casey DeSantis tells reporters in the spin room her husband did an excellent job and she “couldn’t be more proud.”

Miranda Devine: Pretty good debate. DeSantis overall winner. Strong on border, energy, best concluding statement: “I will not let you down.”

Scott Jennings, CNN Commentator: DeSantis rightfully assailing Biden for stressing Islamophobia while antisemitism is raging across the US. #gopdebate

Ben Domenech: They were in fact chanting "Ron".

Frank Luntz: Ron DeSantis borrowed one of Ronald Reagan’s best lines: “We win. They lose.” It worked then. It worked tonight. #GOPDebate

Dana Loesch, The Dana Show: DeSantis knocked it out of the park with his answer on Israel and backed it up with his actions on Florida. #GOPDebate

Ann Coulter: GREAT answer from DeSantis on sending (more of) Americans' hard earned money to Ukraine!!!

Josh Hammer, Josh Hammer Show: DeSantis totally destroying Haley on the China issue. Ouch.

Curtis Houck, MRCTV: Strong, confident start from DeSantis. We are losing. Time to lead. #GOPDebate

Representative Chip Roy: This is a great opening statement by a leader - a leader who can carry this country forward and… win. #DeSantis2024

Will Chamberlain: Imagine thinking “Ron DeSantis doesn’t want to frack in the most sensitive and important ecosystem in the entire country. WE’VE GOT HIM.” The Haley campaign isn’t sending their best #GOPDebate

Matt Whitlock: Ron DeSantis has a plan to modernize the navy down to the number of ships he wants to build. Donald Trump could never.

John Burk: DeSantis just put America first over foreign students actually supporting our enemies. Yes. Absolutely yes. They’re not citizens, kick them out. #GOPdebate

Alexander Nazaryan, Yahoo News: DeSantis argued that he "saved lives" by organizing flights out of Israel: "There could have been more hostages."

Mary Margaret Olohan: .@RonDeSantis: "I already acted in FL. We had a group, @NationalSJP, they said they are common cause with Hamas. They said we are not just in solidarity, this is what we are. We deactivated them. We are not going to use state tax dollars to fund Jihad. No way."

Ann Coulter: DeSantis makes a great point about life expectancy DECLINING in the U.S. (re: Social Security). This isn't a guy who just reads talking points.

Kellie Meyer: "You are going to have hell to pay" @GovRonDeSantis on attacks on our US servicemembers in the Middle East. "We're not going to let our service members be sitting ducks."

AG Hamilton: Strong answer from DeSantis on Hamas-Israel. Says he would tell Netanyahu to finish the job. Get rid of Hamas because they would wipe out every Jew on the planet if they could. Then emphasizes the actions he took to bring Americans home from Israel.

Marcel Teloma: 🚨Ron DeSantis: I’m sick of Republicans losing, I showed what it’s like to win. Crowd ERUPTS.

Ann Coulter: He didn't do it. DeSantis will. Some of us voted on the issues, not because Trump was on "The Apprentice."

Release: Never Back Down Issues Statement on Gov. DeSantis’ Debate Night Victory

RELEASE: Never Back Down Issues Statement on Gov. DeSantis’ Debate Night Victory

ATLANTA, Ga. – Never Back Down Chief Executive Officer Chris Jankowski issued the following statement after the GOP primary debate in Miami:

"Ron DeSantis won. Fight. Win. Lead."