Florida Elected Officials 'Stand With DeSantis' Ahead of GOP Presidential Debate

Florida lawmakers and elected officials are posting their support for Governor Ron DeSantis ahead of tonight's GOP debate in Miami using the hashtag #withDeSantis in what could be seen as a response to several legislators having flipped their support to former President Donald Trump,

"I stand with Gov. Ron DeSantis because he has always stood for parental right’s and freedom! We need strong leadership now more than ever and that is why I will continue to support our Governor!" posted Miami Dade School Board Member Robert J Alonso with the hashtag #withDeSantis.

Alonso, who was endorsed by the Governor, rode the DeSantis victory wave in 2022 which saw Republicans win a historic twenty point victory at the top of the ticket with coattails that went all the way down to local races in Democrat strongholds.

"I support Governor Ron DeSantis because he’s a man of conviction, courage, and faith—exactly the battle-tested leader we need for such a time as this," posted Lakeland GOP Rep Jennifer Canady with the hashtags #withDeSantis #RD24

"I support America’s Governor @RonDeSantis because he leads by example, he’s kept FL Free, he’s protected our children & he’s delivered on his promises. This is the type of leadership we need in DC," posted Palm Harbor State Representative Adam Anderson with the hashtags #withdesantis #RD24

"I support Governor DeSantis because he isn’t afraid to stand up for the conservative values we cherish. He stood up for free markets, the rule of law, and the sanctity of life. I’m proud to fight," posted State Rep Shane Abbott with the hashtag #withDesantis.

"I stand with Governor Ron DeSantis because I have witnessed firsthand how he fights for children and families everyday and is laser focused on ensuring a better future for all of us. We need that kind of courage and leadership now more than ever!" posted Florida Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris with the hashtag #withDesantis.

"This picture is from the signing of the first bill I ever passed into law," posted State Rep Berny Jacques with the hashtag #withDeSantis. "The bill made sure that heinous killers could no longer escape the death penalty because of a previous flaw in our law. Couldn’t have done it without the leadership of Ron DeSantis. He is a law and order Governor and I would love to see him bring that same energy to Washington."

"I am proud to stand with @GovRonDeSantis a bold, electable leader who has consistently led the #1 state economy, transformed school boards & educational opportunities, record infrastructure investments, supporter of law enforcement and delivers on what he says! posted Broward School Board Member and Miami Expressway Agency Interim Executive Director Torey Alston with the hashtag #withDeSantis.

"I support @GovRonDeSantis given all he’s done for our State’s economy. His policies keeping #FL free & open and deregulating unnecessary red tape have allowed entrepreneurs to thrive & new businesses to easily open. This is the leadership America’s businesses need," posted Florida Business and Professional Regulation Secretary Melanie S. Griffith with hashtag #withDeSantis.

"I stand with @RonDeSantis because he's a leader with conviction and his actions speak louder than words," posted Florida Department of Education Secretary Manny Diaz, Jr.

"I support America’s Governor @RonDeSantis because he has been a champion for the conservative values that matter most to my Panhandle community, and as a veteran, he understands the importance of our constitution," posted State Rep Michelle Salzman with hashtag #withDesantis

In an exclusive interview, State Rep Joel Rudman, who authored the Protection of Medical Conscience Act signed by DeSantis said he is doubling down on his support for DeSantis in spite of a few of his colleagues deciding to switch to Donald Trump.

"Governor DeSantis stood up for me and other Florida physicians when we were being attacked ..by Tony Fauci, who worked at the pleasure of President Donald J. Trump,” said Rudman. "Why did President Trump not see what we all saw? Why did he not relieve Fauci of his duties and I think that is the big unanswered question."

DeSantis will take the stage in Miami at 8pm tonight with four other candidates.

Trump again will not participate and will have a rally a few miles down the road in Hialeah instead.