MIAMI, Fla. – For the first time since speculation and rumors began about her potential run for governor, Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis faced the media on Friday.
She joined Gov. Ron DeSantis and Interim President of FIU Jeanette Nuñez to discuss new cancer research initiatives.
However, during the press conference’s Q&A session, questions about her political future became a focal point.
When asked directly about the rumors, Casey DeSantis offered a cryptic response.
“When you come to a fork in the road, take it,” said DeSantis, quoting baseball legend Yogi Berra.
“You guys can read into that,” said Gov. DeSantis.
DeSantis also praised the first lady, referencing that the late conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh “didn’t have to worry” about Casey DeSantis being more “left” than the governor.
Rep. Byron Donalds announced his candidacy for governor following an endorsement from President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, John Morgan, founder of the personal injury law firm Morgan & Morgan, has been hinting at an independent run for the governor’s office on social media.
The governor praised the first lady for her resilience in battling cancer, stating, “What she’s done on this has been really inspirational — just how she handled the cancer has been inspirational.”
The press conference itself highlighted several key cancer-related funding initiatives. The Florida Cancer Innovation Fund will soon open its third application cycle, having grown from $20 million to $60 million.
Additionally, the state plans to establish the Florida Cancer Research Network, distributing $132.5 million in grants for innovative cancer treatments and expanding care in underserved areas.
DeSantis also requested $30 million for the Cancer Connect Collaborative Incubator, focusing on pediatric cancer research.
“This is something that does not discriminate,” Gov. DeSantis said. “This is something that has far-reaching impacts on virtually every segment of our society.” Casey DeSantis, a cancer survivor, emphasized the importance of hope, saying, “If I can stand here and I can fight for you, know that there is hope to fight for yourself and fight for your loved one.”
The Florida Legislature will consider these cancer research initiatives when its session begins on Tuesday, March 4.
