Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who had a contentious primary fight, are now working together to prevent Democratic President Joe Biden from winning a second term. DeSantis recently convened his allies to raise money to support Trump’s 2024 White House campaign. Trump praised DeSantis and the effort during a phone call with the group, signaling a reconciliation between the two politicians. DeSantis hopes to preserve a potential White House run with the support of Trump’s donors, while Trump is trying to make up fundraising ground against Biden.
DeSantis and his top donors raised over $3 million during the fundraising event for the super PAC Right for America, which supports Trump’s 2024 campaign. This fundraising arrangement was reached after discussions between the Trump and DeSantis camps to address concerns among DeSantis supporters about their money being used for the former president’s legal bills. Trump approved the structure during his call to the group, urging them to focus on supporting his campaign.
DeSantis’ decision to push money to the PAC instead of giving directly to Trump’s campaign has raised concerns among some Trump campaign officials. However, supporters of both men are in favor of the arrangement. Right for America is led by Sergio Gor, a longtime Trump ally, who expressed gratitude for DeSantis’ support. DeSantis donors were previously hesitant to contribute to Trump due to concerns about their money being used for legal fees instead of beating Biden.
DeSantis, who may run for the White House again in the future, needs the backing of Trump voters in a potential Republican primary. He called his allies to Fort Lauderdale to kick off a coast-to-coast fundraising effort for Trump, with upcoming events planned in various states. Trump and DeSantis also discussed a role for the governor at the Republican National Convention, with aides confirming that it was Trump’s suggestion and not contingent on fundraising efforts.
During the fundraising event, donors were impressed by the collegiality between Trump and DeSantis during their phone conversation. The two discussed golf, a favorite pastime of Trump’s, indicating a positive rapport between the two politicians. As they put their rivalry behind them, Trump and DeSantis are focused on working together to support Trump’s campaign and prevent Biden from securing a second term.
