GOP presidential hopeful and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday expressed his commitment to embodying the spirit of New Hampshire's motto, "Live free or die," as he vies for the presidency.
DeSantis highlighted his track record in Florida, where he has fought against government interventions that he views as encroachments on individual freedoms, he wrote in an opinion piece for NH Journal.
"On issue after issue, I have fought back against every government scheme on our freedoms," DeSantis declared.
The Florida governor emphasized his dedication to protecting citizens' Second Amendment rights, noting he "delivered constitutional carry" for Floridians. He also touted his efforts in curbing the influence of big corporations, saying he prevented them from imposing their political agendas on private businesses.
DeSantis took a strong stance against central bank digital currency, denouncing it as a scheme of control. He championed legislation to prevent its recognition, positioning himself as a defender of financial freedom.
Addressing concerns about education, DeSantis claimed to have put an end to what he referred to as "indoctrination camps" in public universities. He asserted that defunding the "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion cartel" was essential to ending discriminatory practices.
The Florida governor spoke proudly of his fiscal policies, which included tax cuts on necessities, gas, baby items, and supplies. He highlighted a significant reduction in Florida's state debt, contrasting it with the soaring national debt.
"We cut spending, reduced bureaucracy, and still provided better services than New York or California, who spend much, much more," DeSantis stated, emphasizing his approach to governance.
Looking ahead to his presidential aspirations, DeSantis outlined his plans for government reforms. He pledged to advocate for term limits on Congress, a line-item veto to cut wasteful spending, and a balanced budget amendment to instill fiscal responsibility.
Closing the southern border and holding Mexican drug cartels accountable were central to DeSantis' vision. He asserted that "unrestrained illegal immigration steals freedom and opportunity," pledging to put an end to the problem under his administration.
"We have it within our power to give a new birth of freedom to this country and usher in a revival of the American spirit," DeSantis proclaimed. "I envision an America where people are free to live, work, earn, and thrive."
In a Monday CBS News/YouGov poll of 2,870 adults conducted Jan. 10-12, the three prominent GOP presidential contenders — former President Donald Trump, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, and DeSantis — are all shown to surpass President Joe Biden in hypothetical general election matchups, The Hill reported.
Trump maintains a substantial lead in the GOP primary, commanding 69% support among GOP voters and leading the field by 55 points. Meanwhile, DeSantis secures 14% support, and Haley garners 12%.
The poll carries a margin of error of ±2.5 percentage points.