Republican Ron DeSantis, the current governor of Florida, will not be able to run for reelection in 2026 due to term limits. This limitation is imposed by the Florida Constitution, which restricts governors to serving for just two consecutive terms. DeSantis was first elected as governor in 2018 and won a second term in 2022, meaning that he will have to step down after serving eight years in office. This news has sparked speculation about DeSantis’ future political plans and potential successors within the Republican Party in Florida.
DeSantis has been a controversial figure during his time as governor, especially for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. He has resisted implementing certain public health measures, such as mask mandates and lockdowns, and has been a vocal critic of what he perceives as government overreach in response to the virus. DeSantis’ approach has garnered both praise and criticism, with some lauding his efforts to protect individual freedoms and others questioning the efficacy of his pandemic response. Despite these controversies, DeSantis remains a popular figure within the Republican Party and has been touted as a potential presidential candidate in future elections.
With DeSantis unable to run for reelection in 2026, attention has turned to who may succeed him as governor of Florida. Several prominent Republicans in the state have been mentioned as potential candidates, including Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, and former U.S. Representative Carlos Curbelo. Each of these individuals brings their own strengths and qualifications to the table, and the race to replace DeSantis is sure to be highly competitive. Additionally, DeSantis’ departure from office in 2026 could have far-reaching implications for the future of the Republican Party in Florida and beyond.
DeSantis’ tenure as governor has been marked by his strong support for conservative policies and his close alignment with former President Donald Trump. He has been a fierce advocate for issues such as gun rights, limited government, and immigration reform, and has frequently clashed with Democrats and progressive groups over his policy positions. DeSantis’ alliance with Trump has solidified his standing within the Republican Party, but it remains to be seen how his departure from office in 2026 will impact his political future. Some speculate that DeSantis may pursue a run for higher office, such as the presidency, while others believe he may seek a career in the private sector.
As the countdown to the 2026 gubernatorial election in Florida begins, the race to succeed Ron DeSantis is already heating up. Several Republican candidates have expressed interest in running for governor, while Democrats are also gearing up for what is expected to be a fiercely contested election. DeSantis’ departure will undoubtedly create a power vacuum in Florida politics, and the outcome of the 2026 election could have significant implications for the state and the nation as a whole. With the political landscape in flux, all eyes are on Florida as the race for the governor’s mansion heats up.
