Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday gave endorsements to two Republican lawmakers seeking re-election — Rep. Tom Leek and Speaker-elect Rep. Paul Renner.
Renner, who DeSantis referred to as a “strong supporter of the House agenda,” is running in the new House District 19, a Trump-friendly district that sees it likely that he secures another term in Tallahassee.
“[Paul Renner] has been a strong supporter of our agenda in the House,” said the governor on Twitter. “I’m pleased to endorse his re-election, and I look forward to working with Paul during his term as Speaker of the House.”
Seen as an ally of DeSantis, Renner is poised to serve as the incoming Speaker of the House following Rep. Chris Sprowls, the current Speaker’s, term limitation.
“Honored to have the support of America’s greatest Governor [Ron DeSantis],” said Renner following his endorsement. “His vision for Florida has led us into a moment where all eyes are on our state at a time when leadership is needed in America. I look forward to working with him to keep Florida a place of freedom & opportunity.”
Serving in the Florida House since 2015, Renner is the current chair of the House Rules Committee, and formerly lead the House Judiciary Committee as Chairman from 2019 to 2020.
DeSantis also extended his endorsement to encompass the campaign of Leek, a Volusia County Representative seeking a third term.
Referring to Leek as a “fighter” for his county, DeSantis claims that Leek will stand with him to “protect your freedoms.” Leek notably sponsored a series of bills regarding the prohibition of vaccine mandates as well as the Parent’s Bill of Rights legislation.
Leek currently serves on the Pandemics & Public Emergencies Committee, where he sits as the Chairman, as well as the House Appropriations Committee.
“Honored to receive the endorsement of Gov. DeSantis,” said Leek.
Disappointed in the governor big time. Tim Sharp and Alex Newman are true grassroots conservative candidates going up against establishment incumbents. This is a sad example of how even DeSantis has to play the slimy political game and cater to the Tallahassee swamp. It’s going to be incredibly embarrassing for DeSantis when both of these guys lose.