Introduction: Ron DeSantis
Ron DeSantis, born on September 14, 1978, is an American politician and lawyer serving as the 46th and current governor of Florida since January 2019. A member of the Republican Party, he was elected through a highly contested race, after serving three terms as the representative for Florida’s 6th congressional district in the United States House of Representatives from 2013 to 2018.
Early Life and Family
DeSantis was born in Jacksonville, Florida, and grew up in Dunedin, Florida, a small city in the Tampa Bay area. He is the heir to a lineage of public servants, with his mother working as a nurse and his father as an entertainer and broadcaster.
He earned his bachelor’s degree at Yale University, where he was captain of the varsity baseball team, and then pursued a Juris Doctorate at Harvard Law School, graduating cum laude in 2005.
Military Service
After earning his law degree, DeSantis joined the US Navy, serving as a judge advocate general (JAG). He was deployed to Iraq as a legal advisor to a Navy SEAL team, where he received several commendations for his service. He continued to serve in the Navy Reserve and reached the rank of lieutenant commander.
Political Career: Early Years
Upon returning home, DeSantis practiced law and began immersing himself in politics and public service. In 2012, he won the Republican primary for Florida’s newly redrawn 6th congressional district and subsequently won the general election.
His tenure in Congress was marked by conservative viewpoints. He opposed the Affordable Care Act, supported gun rights, advocated for reduced taxation and government regulation, and took a hardline stance on immigration.
Governorship
In 2018, DeSantis ran a successful campaign for the governorship of Florida. As governor, his administration has focused on environmental protection, education reform, the economy, and healthcare. His response to COVID-19, in particular, received significant attention, as he made controversial decisions to keep businesses and schools open amidst the pandemic.
Controversies and Criticisms
Like most politicians, DeSantis has not been immune to controversy. Some critics argue that his handling of various issues, including COVID-19, education policy, and racial equality, prioritizes political ideology over the needs and safety of Florida’s residents. However, his supporters view his actions as necessary and commendable, reflecting differing perspectives in the diverse Florida electorate.