Turns out, the more he talks, the less people seem to like him. National politics is a whole different beast compared to state-level governance, and DeSantis is learning that lesson in a tough and rather embarrassing way.
From New Republic:
If DeSantis had his wits about him and genuinely cared for both the nation and Floridians who elected him, he'd step aside right now and endorse Trump.
It’s a big night for DeSantis, and he’s putting on a smile—a creepy facsimile of one, anyway.
At the second Republican presidential debate on Wednesday, Ron Desantis once again tried to smile normally and once again failed.
Viewers watching the debate couldn’t help but notice that when speaking about vetoing “bloating spending bills,” DeSantis plastered a faltering smile on his face, which quickly fell into a disturbed grimace.
Oh my, DeSantis did it again tonight: the rant, followed by the forced smile, followed by the grimace. Hilarious. He is beyond saving. pic.twitter.com/Uy7AmRDVcQ
— Mehdi Hasan (@mehdirhasan) September 28, 2023
Every move DeSantis makes is under intense scrutiny. The fact is, his campaign never gained the traction he'd hoped for. Now, he's plummeting in the polls as if he's on a waterslide, while Trump's numbers are soaring to historic heights. The enthusiasm for President Trump is palpable.
Post-debate poll: Trump Posts Biggest Lead Yet Over DeSantis
— InteractivePolls (@IAPolls2022) September 29, 2023
Trump 63% (+5)
DeSantis 12% (-3)
Ramaswamy 7% (-2)
Pence 5% (-1)
Haley 5% (-2)
Christie 3% (+1)
Scott 2% (=)
Hutchinson 1%
Burgum 1%
[Change vs Sept. 24]
Morning Consult | 1,183 LV | 09/28https://t.co/fPgcvoN2Wl pic.twitter.com/oJk4ZA0Wli
Yet, for some unfathomable reason, DeSantis isn't throwing in the towel just yet. Instead, he's making desperate plays for attention, like appearing on liberal programs such as Bill Maher's show. Given how that awkward conversation went, he's probably ruing the decision not to stay home. Eric Trump was quick to share the cringe-worthy moment.
Watch:
— Eric Trump (@EricTrump) September 30, 2023
That's likely his only shot at salvaging his political future. The question on everyone's mind is, why hasn't he? Is it a matter of bruised pride or is someone pulling his strings?
It's both bewildering and deeply disappointing to many conservatives who had high hopes for this guy.
