WASHINGTON (Reuters) – A shake-up in staff for 2024 Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis is unlikely to result in significant changes in strategy, according to sources close to the campaign. Despite mounting pressure from top donors due to a decline in the polls, the campaign is expected to maintain its current course.
On Tuesday, DeSantis’ campaign announced the removal of campaign manager Generra Peck and the addition of two outside strategists. James Uthmeier, former chief of staff for the governor, will replace Peck as the campaign’s chief strategist.
This latest change follows a staffing shakeup in July, which saw the elimination of 38 positions amid concerns about high payroll spending. DeSantis pledged to streamline operations and focus on smaller gatherings to better engage with voters.
While some financial donors have called for a more significant course correction and for DeSantis to adopt moderate positions on divisive social issues, such as abortion, the governor has been losing ground to former President Donald Trump in the race for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination.
Insiders and donors within the campaign believe Peck’s replacement will not alleviate concerns about the direction of DeSantis’ campaign. The decision to remove Peck came after Robert Bigelow, the largest individual donor supporting DeSantis, stated that he would withhold further donations unless the governor changes his approach, citing that “extremism isn’t going to get you elected.”
Bigelow specifically took issue with DeSantis’ signing of a six-week abortion ban earlier this year. The governor has also faced backlash for new Florida teaching standards that include lessons on the contributions of slaves to American history.
Uthmeier, known for his conservative views and lack of experience in national electoral politics, was chosen primarily for his management skills rather than his strategic expertise. However, campaign insiders maintain that the shift in personnel is more organizational than strategic.
Despite receiving calls advocating for a shift towards more moderate positions, the campaign remains firm, asserting that its current positions align with those of the Republican primary electorate.
Some donors argue that DeSantis’ adherence to right-wing positions risks alienating potential voters, especially considering Trump’s strong influence within the party.
Uthmeier’s appointment had been planned for several weeks, with the governor assigning him the task of reviewing the campaign’s operations and providing an evaluation prior to a donor retreat in July. Although Uthmeier lacks electoral political experience, he is widely regarded as an effective manager.
David Polyansky, a seasoned political operative with extensive knowledge of Iowa’s early nominating state, will join Uthmeier as deputy campaign manager. Additionally, Marc Reichelderfer, a political operative based in Tallahassee, will play a major strategic role in the campaign.
Top donors are expected to be briefed on the recent changes later this week.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
