President Donald Trump’s closest allies have accused Florida Governor Ron DeSantis of running an illegal “shadow campaign” for the presidency. The allegation comes amid speculation that Trump will seek re-election in 2024, with DeSantis being considered a potential running mate or even a potential Republican nominee if Trump decides not to run.
According to Politico, allies of Trump have filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission (FEC), alleging that DeSantis is using his political committee, Friends of Ron DeSantis, to “circumvent federal campaign finance laws and regulations” and promote his potential presidential ambitions.
The complaint alleges that DeSantis is raising money for a presidential campaign even though he has not officially announced his candidacy. The complaint further accused DeSantis of using his PAC to pay for campaign-related expenses, which are barred under campaign finance laws.
“Governor DeSantis’ ham-handed maneuverings,” the complaint added, “has resulted in serious questions regarding the legality of his activities.”
In response to the allegations, DeSantis’ team has said that they are following all the rules and regulations that govern campaign finance. His spokesperson, Christina Pushaw, said that the governor’s PAC is being used to support his agenda and to promote conservative policies.
“Governor DeSantis has made it clear his priority is to serve the people of Florida, and he is focused on his re-election in 2022,” Pushaw said in a statement. “The governor’s political committee is a legal entity that supports those efforts.”
The complaint against DeSantis is just the latest sign of the growing rift between Trump loyalists and more mainstream Republicans. While DeSantis has been a staunch supporter of Trump, he has also been seen as a rising star within the Republican Party, with some pundits speculating that he could be a more electable nominee in 2024 than Trump.
However, DeSantis’ association with Trump has also created some controversy. Last year, critics accused DeSantis of putting politics over public health by refusing to impose a statewide mask mandate and by lifting restrictions on businesses too quickly, leading to a surge in COVID-19 cases in Florida.
Despite the criticism, DeSantis has maintained a loyal following among Trump supporters, who see him as a potential successor to the former president. The complaint against DeSantis is unlikely to deter his supporters, who view him as a strong, conservative leader who embodies the spirit of the Trump movement.
Ultimately, the question of whether DeSantis is running an illegal shadow campaign for the presidency will be decided by the FEC. Until then, the speculation and the political maneuvering will continue, as the Republican Party grapples with a post-Trump future.
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