Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Unannounced Stop in Iowa, Signaling 2024 Presidential Run

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is expected to announce his 2024 presidential campaign any day, and on Saturday he made a brief stop in Iowa to attend a conservative picnic fundraiser. The event, which was held in Sioux Center, drew hundreds of conservatives to the northwest corner of the state.

During his speech, DeSantis decried a Republican “culture of losing” and hinted at his upcoming candidacy. He also seized on former President Donald Trump’s absence and scheduled an unannounced stop at Jethro’s, a Des Moines barbecue joint.

At the restaurant, DeSantis spoke to roughly 100 supporters who packed the patio and sidewalk. He highlighted his eagerness to embrace conservative cultural fights and sprinkled his remarks with indirect jabs at Trump.

The Florida Governor’s visit to Iowa is just the latest in a series of moves that suggest he is gearing up for a presidential run. He has made two visits to the state this year, and his speech at the picnic fundraiser was seen as a way to reach out to the Republican base.

DeSantis is one of many potential candidates who are vying for the Republican nomination in 2024. With the Iowa caucuses just two years away, the competition is sure to heat up in the coming months.