Trump and DeSantis reconcile, strategize on fundraising for the former president’s campaign

Former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently held a private meeting to mend fences and discuss potential joint fundraising efforts. The meeting, lasting three hours, aimed to reconcile after a contentious Republican primary marked by insults and strained relations, as reported by three anonymous sources.

The gathering was organized by Florida real estate investor Steve Witkoff and took place at his Shell Bay Club in Hollywood, Florida. Despite initial tensions, the meeting concluded amicably with a handshake between the two leaders.

Following the meeting, Trump expressed his gratitude for DeSantis’ support in a social media post, highlighting their shared commitment to “MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN.” DeSantis, known for his extensive donor network, holds significant fundraising potential for their collaborative efforts.

While DeSantis had previously endorsed Trump during his presidential bid, he had refrained from actively campaigning or fundraising on his behalf. The dynamic between the two leaders has been complicated by past conflicts and differing political strategies, with DeSantis maintaining a cautious approach to aligning closely with Trump.

Despite their past rivalry, DeSantis is seen as a potential contender for future presidential bids, though potential obstacles remain within the Republican Party. Trump’s overwhelming support within the party poses challenges for DeSantis’ political ambitions, particularly in the event of a Trump victory in the upcoming election.