DeSantis Confirms Trump’s 2020 Election Loss Amid Questioning
In a recent interview, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis candidly addressed the outcome of the 2020 presidential election, putting aside any lingering doubts and acknowledging that former President Donald Trump did indeed lose the election. Despite trailing behind Trump in the crowded field of 2024 Republican presidential candidates, DeSantis confidently asserted that “whoever puts their hand on the Bible on Jan. 20 every four years is the winner.” He emphasized that President Joe Biden rightfully assumed the presidency after winning the election.
However, DeSantis did express his concerns about the election process. He criticized the media and others for portraying the 2020 election as a perfect and flawless event. He believes that the election was not properly conducted and that Republicans failed to assert themselves effectively during the process. He stressed the importance of fighting back against any irregularities to ensure the integrity of future elections.
One area of contention for DeSantis is mail-in ballots and laws that permit third parties to return ballots. Despite his criticisms, it is essential to note that research has not shown any significant evidence of widespread voter fraud in the 2020 presidential election, and voting by mail has been found to have no inherent partisan bias, benefiting neither Republicans nor Democrats specifically.
Governor DeSantis’ statements on the 2020 election have been carefully framed, possibly to avoid alienating voters who still hold onto the unfounded claims of election fraud made by the former president. He has been mindful of striking a balance between acknowledging the election’s outcome and maintaining support within his party.
Reflecting on recent election cycles, DeSantis expressed frustration at the Republican Party’s string of losses, citing the loss of the House in 2018 and the Senate in 2020. He pointed out that despite expectations of a “big red wave,” only Florida and Iowa seemed to have experienced a significant shift in favor of Republicans. DeSantis believes that the party must address its culture of losing and be more accountable for its actions.
In a notable departure from Trump’s narrative, Governor DeSantis criticized the former president for not condemning the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol more vehemently. While he refrained from labeling it an insurrection, he referred to it as a “protest” that “ended up devolving in a way that was unfortunate.” This stance highlights DeSantis’ willingness to express his independent views on critical issues.
As the 2024 presidential race continues to take shape, Governor DeSantis’ acknowledgment of the 2020 election results adds an interesting dynamic to the political landscape. While he may differ from Trump on certain matters, DeSantis remains a prominent figure in the Republican Party, vying for support as he charts a unique path forward.
