Crist Acknowledges DeSantis' Popularity, Celebrates Tie in Recent Poll

Public Opinion Polls have time and time again reinforced the stronghold Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) has on Florida going into the 2022 election.  Now, Democratic opponent, US Rep. Charlie Crist (D-FL) is celebrating a poll where he ties DeSantis, acknowledging the governor's popularity.

After winning the Democrat primary against Commissioner of Agriculture Nikki Fried (D-FL), Charlie Crist quickly turned the rhetoric against Governor DeSantis and his supporters.  Just last month, Crist made the bold claim that DeSantis' supporters are, "far right," despite his 54% approval rating.

Yesterday, Crist took to Twitter to brag about a new poll that he is not even winning.  The once again candidate, Crist wrote with a "BREAKING," headline, "A new poll has us statistically tied with Ron DeSantis.  He's beatable and we're going to stop him."

While polls are one thing, people have placed wagers on the high-stakes election race, with betting odds giving Ron DeSantis a 91% chance of victory on November of '22.  Additionally, Republicans have held the Governor's Mansion in Tallahassee since the late 1990s, more than 20 years.

While the poll Crist is referring to is unclear, DeSantis has a substantial lead on the former governor and current Congressman by 8 points.  According to a University of North Florida poll from August 8th through August 12th, DeSantis secured 50% support from Floridians compared to Crist's 42%.

Even polls that have been endorsed by progressive groups show an uphill battle for Crist heading into the general election.  Clarity Campaign Labs, who are sponsored by the progressive groups Florida Watch and Progress Florida, conducted a poll from July 26th through July 31st, where DeSantis led Crist by 3 points, 47% to 44%.

Crist celebrating a tie in a recent poll is very telling of what the narrative will be this election cycle.  Crist has inserted himself into a David and Goliath face off, confirming that Democrats are fully aware of the vast popularity and firebrand that is Ron DeSantis.