Renowned philanthropist and prominent donor Kenneth Griffin, who played a pivotal role in Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ 2021 gubernatorial campaign, has expressed reservations about supporting DeSantis’ prospective 2024 presidential bid. Griffin’s reluctance stems from concerns over what he perceives as a lack of a winning strategy in the governor’s presidential campaign, exemplified by DeSantis’ contentious stance on Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” law.
Griffin’s previous support for DeSantis amounted to a substantial $5 million contribution during the 2021 gubernatorial race. In April, he lauded DeSantis for his efforts in making Florida an appealing state to live and work in. Griffin commended the governor’s focus on expanding quality educational options and prioritizing community safety.
However, Griffin’s endorsement now seems to have waned. In a recent interview on CNBC, Griffin acknowledged DeSantis’ “phenomenal” governorship but expressed confusion over the direction of his presidential campaign. He remarked, “I don’t know his strategy. It’s not clear to me what voter base he is intending to appeal to.”
Griffin went on to articulate a vision for a more diverse and inclusive Republican primary candidate, one of a younger generation with a different tone for America. He yearned for a robust debate centered on ideas, principles, and policies to elevate the nation, lamenting the absence of such a discourse in the current political landscape.
Particularly concerning for Griffin was DeSantis’ ongoing feud with Disney, which he deemed “pointless” and detrimental to Florida’s reputation. After Disney publicly opposed Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” law, DeSantis took a combative stance, dissolving Disney’s self-governing district in the state and appointing a board to oversee the area. In response, Disney filed a lawsuit against DeSantis, alleging a “relentless campaign to weaponize government power against Disney in retaliation for expressing a political viewpoint,” prompting a counter-suit from DeSantis’ board.
Despite DeSantis suggesting it’s time to “move on” from the Disney dispute, the conflict shows no signs of abating, potentially entangling taxpayers in an estimated $4.5 million legal battle by 2024.
Griffin is not alone in his shift away from DeSantis. Among the top 50 donors who generously contributed $160,000 or more to DeSantis’ 2022 gubernatorial reelection campaign, only eight have extended support to his presidential campaign. Additionally, just 16 of these donors have contributed to his super PAC, “Never Back Down.” Notably, five of those who donated to the super PAC also allocated funds to DeSantis’ GOP presidential competitors.
Another significant past donor, hotel and aerospace executive Robert Bigelow, disclosed that he would withhold support unless DeSantis adopted more moderate policies and demonstrated his ability to generate independent contributions.
DeSantis’ signing of a stringent six-week abortion ban and his ongoing Disney dispute have also drawn criticism from major donors. Furthermore, DeSantis trails behind his primary rival, former President Donald Trump, by substantial margins in various polls, compounding the challenges facing his presidential campaign.