President Donald Trump said he would consider appointing Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) to a cabinet position, pointing to a working relationship that has stabilized after a contentious 2024 primary.
“Well, I like him a lot,” Trump said when asked about a potential role for DeSantis in his administration.
DeSantis ran against Trump in the Republican primary but failed to gain traction after an early loss in Iowa. His campaign ended soon after, and he endorsed Trump. Since then, the two have coordinated on policy and political strategy.
DeSantis has supported the administration’s immigration enforcement priorities and worked with federal officials on state-level initiatives. He has also backed Trump’s executive action on college athletics that limits how often student athletes can transfer without penalty.
The relationship marks a shift from the primary period, when Trump repeatedly criticized DeSantis and used the nickname “Ron DeSanctimonious.” Those attacks have stopped, and Trump has publicly praised DeSantis’ performance as governor. During a recent visit to a Florida immigration detention facility, Trump rated him highly and highlighted cooperation between the state and federal government.
The cabinet discussion comes as the administration has made several personnel changes.
Trump has removed Kristi Noem, Pam Bondi, and Lori Chavez-DeRemer from their positions. Permanent replacements for attorney general and labor secretary have not been confirmed, leaving potential openings for future appointments.
DeSantis has been linked to those positions in previous reporting. He has expressed interest in roles such as defense secretary or attorney general, which would align with his policy background and legal experience.
His term as governor ends in January 2027 due to term limits, making him available for a federal role without leaving office early. That timing aligns with the administration’s ability to reshape its cabinet during Trump’s current term.
DeSantis has also taken steps at the state level that align with national Republican priorities. He pushed new congressional maps in Florida that could add four Republican seats in the House, a move that could influence control of Congress after the next election cycle, per the New York Post.
He has also supported measures that align with Trump’s broader political agenda, reinforcing coordination between the state and federal levels.
The potential appointment reflects a common pattern in presidential politics, where primary rivals are brought into an administration after the election. The arrangement can consolidate support within the party and bring experienced officials into key positions.
Any formal nomination would depend on available positions and Senate confirmation. Trump has not announced a specific role under consideration, and no timeline has been provided for a decision.
The discussion signals that DeSantis remains a significant figure within Republican politics despite his failed presidential run. His alignment with Trump and ongoing policy coordination position him as a viable candidate for a senior role if the administration continues to restructure its cabinet.
