Staff Reports
In a stunning turn of events, Texas Republican Lance Gooden has endorsed former President Donald Trump for the 2024 presidential election. This is a major hit for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who was previously seen as Trump’s main competition for the nomination.
Today, after careful consideration and a positive meeting with Governor DeSantis, I have decided to endorse President @realDonaldTrump for 2024.
I look forward to fighting alongside him to reclaim our country from the leftist forces trying to destroy it. pic.twitter.com/WqMNKxv6hV
— Lance Gooden (@Lancegooden) April 18, 2023
Gooden had initially met with Governor DeSantis, praising his conservative agenda, but ultimately decided that Trump was the only person who could save America from the “leftist onslaught” that is threatening the country. Gooden declared his full support for Trump, calling him a tireless fighter and a guardian of American jobs and the economy.
This endorsement comes as DeSantis has been struggling to gather support, with only three House Republicans endorsing him so far. Trump, on the other hand, has secured endorsements from more than 50 Republican lawmakers, including seven from Florida alone.
Although DeSantis has been trying to position himself as a viable alternative to Trump, his efforts may be falling short. Some Republican donors have expressed concerns about his political acumen, and his delay in declaring his candidacy may have allowed Trump to further define him in the public eye.
Despite these challenges, DeSantis has continued to push conservative culture war issues, such as his recent ban on abortions after six weeks and his battle against “woke” Disney. Supporters caution that it is still early in the game and that DeSantis may have time to gain ground before the primaries. However, with Trump’s popularity on the rise, it remains to be seen if he can overcome this latest setback.
Source: Conservative Institute
