DeSantis on Time 'Person of the Year' Shortlist

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) continues to make headlines as DeSantis has made the Time Magazine "Person of the Year" Shortlist. Joining the likes of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, DeSantis has similarly created buzz as he is rumored to be launching a 2024 presidential bid.

This week, the Florida Governor announced that the state's efforts to respond to Hurricane Ian continue. The latest development includes money appropriated to help rebuild homes that were affected by the hurricane.

On social media, DeSantis made the announcement, sharing that "Florida will provide up to $25 million through state funds and up to $35.2 million through the Florida Disaster Fund to repair homes damaged by Hurricane Ian so Floridians can move back into their homes and to provide resources for nonprofit organizations to address unmet needs."

DeSantis was joined by First Lady Casey DeSantis and other Florida leaders in a press conference to discuss the funds that would go toward rebuilding the homes. In the conference, DeSantis explained that the state has  "launched a first of its kind state led housing initiative to provide travel trailers and recreational vehicles to impacted Floridians who may not be eligible for FEMA’s direct housing program,” citing that Florida “can do it quicker and more efficiently than FEMA.”

The DeSantis administration was praised for its response to Hurricane Ian, and in the November election, DeSantis won reelection by close to 20 points. Though Governor DeSantis has grown in popularity, political pundits are still wary of the Republican stalwart.

Commenting on his inclusion in Time Magazine's "Person of the Year" shortlist, the Morning Joe hosts argued that "Ron DeSantis makes no sense" in a list with President Zelensky, Elon Musk, Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney (R), Secretary of Treasury Janet Yellen, Gun Safety Advocates, the Protestors in Iran, the U.S. Supreme Court, Mackenzie Scott, and Paramount Leader Xi Jinping.