Ron DeSantis Takes Presidential Campaign to Utah

Source: Salt Lake City (AP)

Utah: A Beacon of Strength for DeSantis’ Campaign

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is prioritizing Utah in his presidential campaign, recognizing the potential strength it holds for his bid. Despite rival Donald Trump‘s previous struggles in the state, DeSantis aims to showcase his own appeal to Utah’s heavily Republican population.

Showcasing Strength Against Trump

DeSantis plans to highlight his strengths against Trump during his visit to Utah. This tactic comes as he manages financial pressures and attempts to gain momentum in a field dominated by the former president. Despite Trump’s ongoing legal issues, including an impending indictment, he remains a front-runner in the race.

Inspiring Support for DeSantis’ Forward-Thinking Plan

According to campaign spokesperson Andrew Romeo, Governor DeSantis’ increasing visibility and his progressive vision for the nation’s comeback inspire more people to vote for him as president. By actively engaging with voters and sharing his innovative agenda, DeSantis aims to garner strong support.

A Chilly Reception for Trump in Utah

Utah’s predominantly conservative and religious culture has at times been less receptive to Donald Trump. In the 2016 Republican presidential caucuses, he finished third in the state. However, despite the resistance he faced, Trump ultimately won Utah in both the 2016 and 2020 general elections.

A Shift to the Right in Utah Politics

In recent years, Utah’s Republican-led Legislature has shifted further to the right, aligning with many other red states. This shift has resulted in the passage of laws reflecting key aspects of DeSantis’ campaign message, such as bans on gender-affirming care for transgender children and debates about sensitive materials in schools.

Close Race Expected Between Trump and DeSantis

State Senate President Stuart Adams, who previously endorsed Trump, now believes the race between Trump and DeSantis in Utah will be highly competitive. Impressed by DeSantis’ leadership during the pandemic, Adams sees potential for DeSantis to gain substantial support from Utah residents who value family values.

Character and Past Actions Impacting Trump’s Popularity

Republican State Senator Todd Weiler does not anticipate Trump winning Utah’s GOP primary due to concerns about his character, including his affairs, divorces, and controversial rhetoric. Weiler also cites the Jan. 6 attack and multiple indictments as factors that may deter independents from supporting Trump.

Support Shifts Away from Trump in Utah

Even one of Trump’s staunchest supporters in Utah, Don Peay, has withdrawn his support, stating that Trump is “living in the past.” Peay, who played a significant role in Trump’s 2016 campaign, no longer believes Trump can win. This change in support reflects a broader shift away from Trump in the state.

Utah’s Role in the Super Tuesday Primary

Utah will join more than a dozen states in holding primary contests on Super Tuesday next year. This critical day in the primary calendar awards the largest number of delegates. With Utah now conducting a primary election instead of caucuses, the state expects a broader voter base to participate.

Governor Cox’s Support for Republican Governors

Republican Governor Spencer Cox, who heads the National Governors Association, will meet with DeSantis during his visit to Utah. While Cox has not publicly endorsed DeSantis or any other candidate, he has expressed his support for Republican governors in general, recognizing their ability to get things done.