DeSantis denies 2028 campaign prep amid GOP midterm collapse

Key points

• DeSantis denied contacting political consultants for a 2028 campaign, calling The Washington Post’s report a fabrication.
• The Washington Post reported that DeSantis had reached out to at least one national political consultant and that a federal super PAC tied to him sent a fundraising text.
• ABC News sources indicate DeSantis is keeping his options open but has not made a final decision, citing the need to assess the political environment.
• DeSantis described the 2026 midterm results as a 'meteor strike' and an 'extinction-level event' for Republicans, noting Florida was the only top-10 state to retain GOP control.
• DeSantis’s term as governor ends in January 2026, and he previously suspended his 2024 presidential campaign after the Iowa caucuses.

Background

DeSantis’s 2024 presidential bid ended with a drop-out before the New Hampshire primary, following a distant second place in the Iowa caucuses. His campaign was marked by political infighting and overspending. The 2026 midterm elections saw Democrats seize control of both chambers of Congress and a majority of governorships, a historic defeat for Republicans. DeSantis has previously left open the possibility of another presidential campaign, and his term as governor ends in January 2026.

How outlets are covering it

The Washington Post reported that DeSantis was preparing to seek the Republican presidential nomination in 2028, citing three people briefed on his plans. DeSantis denied this, calling the report a fabrication and accusing The Post of using anonymous sources to garner clicks. ABC News sources indicated that DeSantis is keeping his options open but has not made a final decision, citing the need to assess the political environment. Politico noted that DeSantis’s media blitz is renewing speculation about his future, with conservative radio host Jenna Ellis calling it 'DeSantis’ time.' Fox News reported DeSantis’s denial and noted that he has previously left open the possibility of another presidential campaign. The outlets differ on whether DeSantis is actively preparing a campaign or merely evaluating his options, with The Washington Post asserting active preparations and ABC News and Fox News suggesting indecision or open options.

Why it matters

DeSantis’s potential 2028 presidential bid could reshape the Republican Party’s leadership following a historic midterm defeat. His denial of active campaign preparations and his evaluation of the political landscape reflect the uncertainty within the GOP as it seeks to recover from significant losses. DeSantis’s term as governor ends in January 2026, and his 2024 campaign ended with a drop-out before the New Hampshire primary, making his future political moves a key factor in the 2028 nomination race.

What to watch

DeSantis’s term as governor ends in January 2026, and he has not committed to a 2028 presidential campaign. The Republican Party is expected to continue its internal reckoning following the 2026 midterm defeat, with DeSantis, JD Vance, and Ted Cruz among the potential candidates for the 2028 nomination. DeSantis’s media appearances and public statements will likely continue to shape speculation about his future political moves.