In a remarkable display of candor, Ron DeSantis, the Florida governor, responded to Donald Trump’s insults by calling them ‘hollow’ and ‘childish.’ During his appearance at WMUR’s ‘Conversation with the Candidate’ event, DeSantis made it clear that such behavior is unbecoming of a great nation and its leader.
He firmly stated, “These insults are devoid of substance, and they reflect poorly on the President of the United States. We should conduct ourselves with dignity and respect, regardless of our political differences.”
Drawing from personal values, DeSantis shared that he refrains from launching personal attacks on opponents’ looks, driven by the desire to set a positive example for his three young children. His commitment to teaching them empathy and kindness guides his approach to politics.
With a stern warning, DeSantis cautioned that indulging in ‘childish’ insults could lead to Republican losses. Despite acknowledging widespread disapproval of President Biden’s policies, he emphasized that resorting to such tactics will not garner support from voters seeking respectful leadership.
While DeSantis had supported Trump in the past, he now raises concerns about unfulfilled promises from Trump’s previous campaign. He pointedly criticized Trump’s failure to deliver on eliminating the national debt, securing funding from Mexico for a border wall, and cleansing Washington, D.C., of corruption.
Ironically, DeSantis remarked that Trump’s insults may inadvertently benefit him in the polls. He believes that voters view such tactics as ineffective and unprofessional, contributing to a negative perception of those who employ them.
In a lighter moment, DeSantis mentioned how he found humor in being called ‘Ron DeSanctimonious,’ appreciating the play on words while not letting it define him.
Despite Trump’s substantial lead over DeSantis in recent polls, the Florida governor remains steadfast in his commitment to conducting a respectful and issues-oriented campaign. The New York Times/Siena Poll released Monday showed Trump with a commanding 37 percent lead over DeSantis, while other candidates failed to reach double-digit support.
As the campaign unfolds, DeSantis continues to prioritize integrity and thoughtful engagement with voters, hoping that substantive policies and a respectful demeanor will resonate with the American people. In an era of heightened political divisiveness, DeSantis’s unique approach aims to bridge gaps and appeal to a broader electorate.