Ron DeSantis

Ron DeSantis, Official Portrait, 113th Congress (cropped 2)

Representative Ron DeSantis, Iran's Missile Program (17983165814)

2018 Florida gubernatorial election results map by county

2022 Florida gubernatorial election results map by county

Ron DeSantis is an American politician and attorney who has been serving as the 46th Governor of Florida since January 8, 2019. A member of the Republican Party, DeSantis has played a significant role in American politics, particularly within the state of Florida. Prior to his governorship, he represented Florida's 6th district in the United States House of Representatives from 2013 to 2018.

Early Life and Education

Ronald Dion DeSantis was born on September 14, 1978, in Jacksonville, Florida. He grew up in Dunedin, Florida, and attended Dunedin High School. After high school, DeSantis went on to attend Yale University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History. He then earned a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School, furthering his education in the field of law.

Military Service

After completing his education, DeSantis served as an officer in the United States Navy, where he was deployed to Iraq as an advisor to a U.S. Navy SEAL commander in support of the SEAL mission in Fallujah, Ramadi, and the rest of Al Anbar province. For his service, he earned the Bronze Star Medal (meritorious service), the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (gold star in lieu of second award), the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and the Iraq Campaign Medal.

Political Career

U.S. House of Representatives

DeSantis's political career began when he was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 2012. During his tenure, he was known for his conservative stance on fiscal and social issues, advocating for limited government and strict adherence to the United States Constitution.

Governor of Florida

In 2018, DeSantis ran for Governor of Florida and won, succeeding Rick Scott. As governor, he has focused on issues such as environmental policy, education reform, and response to the COVID-19 pandemic. His administration has been marked by a hands-off approach to pandemic restrictions, prioritizing economic concerns and personal freedoms.

Political Positions

DeSantis is considered a conservative, particularly in his stances on immigration, gun rights, and healthcare. He has been a vocal critic of the Affordable Care Act and has advocated for the repeal of what he terms "Obamacare." In environmental policy, while initially not recognized as a strong advocate, he has taken significant steps towards restoration efforts in the Everglades and addressing red tide and blue-green algae blooms in Florida.

Personal Life

Ron DeSantis is married to Casey DeSantis, a former news and television show host. They have three children together. The family resides in the Governor's Mansion in Tallahassee, Florida.

Controversies

Throughout his career, DeSantis has been a figure of both significant support and controversy. His handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, has been a point of contention, with critics arguing that his policies have contributed to higher cases and deaths in Florida. Supporters, however, praise his commitment to keeping the state's economy open and safeguarding personal freedoms.

Future Prospects

As of the last update of this article, speculation surrounds DeSantis's future in politics, with many suggesting he may have aspirations for higher office, including a potential bid for the Presidency of the United States.