Florida First Lady Considers Run for Governor in 2026

PALM BEACH, Fla. — Casey DeSantis, the first lady of Florida, is reportedly considering a run for governor in 2026 as her husband, current Governor Ron DeSantis, is ineligible for a third consecutive term.

Sources close to the DeSantis camp told The Post that Republican donors are urging Casey to launch her campaign. “This has always been in the plans. She’s as ambitious as he is,” a source stated, adding that the couple sees themselves as emerging political partners. “She wants it very much.”

Casey DeSantis, 44, was a vocal supporter of her husband during his political campaigns, including his race for the White House last year. Her presence has garnered her national attention, positioning her as a formidable candidate for the state’s highest office. Donors are actively promoting her potential candidacy, particularly following a recent meeting in Palm Beach County.

Ron DeSantis has consistently supported his wife’s involvement in political affairs, and a source indicated that he views her candidacy as a strategy to shape Florida’s future leadership. “It’s his best opportunity to set the future leadership for the state and prevent a Simpson or Donalds governorship,” the source said, referencing two other potential Republican contenders, Rep. Byron Donalds and Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson.

The couple’s political journey began on a golf course at Naval Station Mayport, where they first met. They married at Disney World in 2009, and Casey became the youngest first lady in Florida history at age 38 upon Ron’s inauguration in 2019. If successful, she would be the first female governor of Florida, a state that has yet to elect a woman to the position.

The Post has reached out to both Ron and Casey DeSantis for comments regarding her potential candidacy.