DeSantis Returns to Mainstream Media with Softer Approach: Interview with Jake Tapper
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a prominent GOP candidate and former Trump rival, has returned to mainstream media. In a 15-minute interview with Jake Tapper, he softened his stance on traditional media despite his five-year hostility.
In the interview, DeSantis joked about a 2018 poll that predicted his loss in the gubernatorial race, which he won. His previous interactions with traditional media were marked by name-calling and open criticism.
In recent years, DeSantis has promoted state laws that strip reporters of legal protections and promoted communications staffers who publicly attack the media. He also created a right-wing media bubble by communicating directly through conservative channels.
DeSantis may have reconsidered his strategy after his 2024 presidential campaign stalled. His willingness to talk about that he values public outreach.
DeSantis was questioned by Jake Tapper about his White House bid and polling. He is far behind Trump, casting doubt on his campaign. He fired over a dozen staffers within two months of announcing his candidacy after his first campaign finance report raised red flags.
Despite these challenges, DeSantis defended his record, citing his historic November re-election as Florida’s governor by nearly 20 percentage points. He blamed his presidential campaign’s slow start on his focus on Florida’s Legislature in 2023, highlighting his governorship.
DeSantis has prioritized fighting “wokeness,” which he calls “cultural Marxism” that values identity politics over merit and achievement. His policy proposals during his first term as governor and his presidential campaign have focused on this theme.
DeSantis recently announced his plan to “rip the woke out of the military,” including removing diversity and equity programs, banning transgender people from serving based on their identity, and reenlisting service members who were separated for not following Covid vaccine mandates.
DeSantis remains steadfast, but some critics argue that “wokeness” is not a top policy issue for most people because they don’t understand it. DeSantis insists on addressing cultural Marxism in public institutions.
DeSantis wanted peace in Ukraine without rewarding Russia. He called China the “number one threat” to the US and urged U.S. foreign policy to focus on Asia. As governor, he has passed laws “cracking down” on China, including a bill banning Chinese companies from buying Florida farmland.
DeSantis also reiterated his longstanding opposition to trans women playing men’s sports in his interview. He filed nearly 20 LGBTQ-related bills in Florida’s 2023 legislative session, confirming his views.
DeSantis signed a six-week abortion ban at the state level, but when asked about abortion, he did not say whether he would support a federal ban.
DeSantis also defended former President Donald Trump from charges related to the January 6 riot and attempts to overturn the 2020 election. He criticized Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s hush money indictment of Trump and the criminalization of political differences.
In conclusion, Governor Ron DeSantis’ return to mainstream media shows a strategic shift in his campaign amid struggles to gain momentum in the 2024 presidential race. He recognizes the need to expand his audience by softening his stance and engaging with traditional media. DeSantis remains committed to his policy priorities, but he faces challenges in improving his polling and presidential bid. DeSantis’ campaign strategy and policy positions may shape the 2024 presidential election.
