Florida Governor Ron DeSantis made a significant announcement on Sunday, revealing his decision to suspend his presidential campaign and throw his support behind former President Donald Trump. DeSantis, who consistently held the second position throughout his presidential bid, explained his choice by emphasizing the importance of politicians serving the citizens rather than the other way around. He stressed the need for impactful leadership that delivers substantial results for the American people, citing his record of fulfilling promises and defeating those responsible for the nation’s decline.

In a statement, Governor DeSantis reflected on the decision-making process, sharing that he and his wife Casey engaged in prayerful consideration after his second-place finish in Iowa. He expressed a willingness to do more campaign stops and interviews if it could produce a favorable outcome, stating, “If there was anything I could do to produce a favorable outcome, more campaign stops, more interviews, I would do it. But I can’t ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources if we don’t have a clear path to victory. Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign. I’m proud to have delivered on 100% of my promises, and I will not stop now.”

Governor DeSantis underscored his perspective on the role of politicians, asserting, “Citizens do not serve politicians. It is the duty of politicians to serve you. Talk is cheap. Actions speak louder than words. Reversing the decline of this nation requires leadership that delivers big results for the people we are elected to serve. I have a record of leading with conviction, championing an agenda marked by bold colors, delivering on my promises, and defeating the people who are responsible for our nation’s decline. That is the type of leadership we need for all of America.”

He highlighted the prevailing sentiment among a majority of GOP primary voters, recognizing their desire to give Donald Trump another chance. DeSantis reiterated his commitment to supporting the Republican nominee, endorsing Trump as a preferable alternative to what he described as the old Republican Guard of yesteryear, represented by Nikki Haley and characterized as a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism.

The dynamics of the presidential race underwent a notable shift after Trump faced an indictment by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, according to top polling experts. Analysts noted polls showing DeSantis leading Trump, especially after Florida stood out as a bright spot in the aftermath of the previous year’s midterm elections. However, the landscape changed significantly after Trump’s indictment, with a considerable percentage of Republicans rallying around the former president, particularly following three subsequent indictments.