TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — The political aspirations of Florida’s first lady, Casey DeSantis, have been the subject of much speculation in the state capital, Tallahassee. This week, her husband, Governor Ron DeSantis, fueled the conversation by suggesting she could be his successor.
Florida law limits governors to two consecutive terms, which means the popular Republican governor cannot seek reelection in 2026. However, theoretically, he could run for the office again in the future. As his second term nears its end, DeSantis is endorsing his wife while critiquing President Donald Trump’s preferred candidate, Rep. Byron Donalds.
“All these people are chattering about her running. And what I said was, you know ... she’s never angled for anything, right? Because that’s just not who she is,” DeSantis, 46, mentioned on Monday while addressing reporters. “But I will tell you this,” he added, “She would do better than me. Like, there’s no question about that.”
Casey DeSantis is regarded as one of Ron's top advisors and confidantes. Known for his small circle of trust, the governor values the enduring relationship he has with his wife. She played a significant surrogate role during his challenge against Trump for the Republican presidential nomination. As a 44-year-old mother of three, the first lady showcased a softer side of the power couple, especially on the campaign trail in Iowa, where personal connections are crucial.
Casey often drew more applause than Ron, focusing on their children and the significance of family and community during her speeches.
Originally from Ohio, Casey DeSantis moved to South Carolina and earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from the College of Charleston. Her career in media began as a producer and on-air host for the PGA Tour, eventually becoming a reporter and anchor for two television stations in Jacksonville, Florida. She honed her media strategy and brand before stepping down as her husband launched his gubernatorial campaign in 2018.
Casey DeSantis has been an active participant in her husband’s administration, advocating for children, families, and mental health issues. She frequently appears at bill signings, fundraisers, and other events, often with their children. One of her significant initiatives, Hope Florida, connects residents facing financial struggles with support from faith-based organizations, nonprofits, and community groups for essentials like groceries, housing assistance, and job training.
The first lady has also collaborated with the state’s Department of Education to establish “character standards” in Florida schools, promoting values such as resiliency, responsibility, and respect.
In 2021, the governor announced that Casey had been diagnosed with breast cancer. After surgery and chemotherapy, she was declared cancer-free in 2022. Since then, Casey DeSantis has emphasized the importance of early screenings and interventions, traveling across the state to meet with patients and raise awareness. Following her diagnosis, the governor approved $100 million in recurring funding for cancer research and care.
