The Trump campaign just stole a longtime former Ron DeSantis strategist for the former president's 2024 campaign, Politico reported on Friday.
In a surprising move, the Trump campaign has onboarded Brian Hughes, a seasoned Florida political operative. This decision further intertwines the political narratives of former Trump and the Florida governor.
Hughes' history with Jacksonville's GOP mayor
Trump's campaign team has officially welcomed Hughes to spearhead its operations in the Sunshine State. Hughes, known for his extensive work with Jacksonville's Republican mayor, is no stranger to the political landscape in Florida.
While Hughes acknowledged his new role via a text message, he directed all inquiries to the Trump campaign. As of now, the Trump campaign has yet to comment on this new appointment.
Interestingly, this isn't the first time Hughes has been associated with a high-profile political campaign. He also played a pivotal role in DeSantis' maiden congressional campaign in 2012.
DeSantis and Trump: A complex relationship
The Trump campaign's decision to bring Hughes into its fold signifies an ongoing strategy to hire individuals closely associated with Gov. DeSantis. This move is intriguing, especially since DeSantis himself remains a contender in the race for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination.
Another noteworthy connection between the two political giants is Susie Wiles, one of Trump's top advisers. Wiles, who previously worked for DeSantis, was instrumental in Trump's 2016 victory in Florida and also played a key role in Rick Scott's gubernatorial campaign.
However, the relationship between Wiles and DeSantis soured in 2019, leading to her exit from Trump's 2020 campaign. Despite this, Trump re-engaged with Wiles just a few months before his re-election bid, a decision that reportedly upset the governor.
Florida's pivotal role in the 2024 elections
The Republican presidential primary in Florida is slated for March 19. While it follows the early states and Super Tuesday, its winner-take-all nature could potentially offer the triumphant candidate a significant advantage in securing the nomination.
Over the past eight years, Hughes has collaborated closely with Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry. Under Curry's leadership, Hughes ascended to the role of chief administrative officer for Jacksonville.
Despite Curry's exit due to term limits, the Republicans were optimistic about retaining his position. However, their hopes were dashed when Democrat Donna Deegan clinched a victory over the GOP candidate endorsed by DeSantis.
DeSantis' recent political maneuvers
DeSantis' political strategies have been under scrutiny in the past, especially after he refrained from supporting Republican Daniel Davis during the final stages of the campaign. This decision has ruffled feathers among some Jacksonville Republicans.
As the 2024 elections approach, the political landscape in Florida continues to evolve. With key players like Trump and DeSantis making strategic moves, the state remains a focal point in the race for the presidency.
The addition of Brian Hughes to Trump's campaign team further complicates the intricate web of relationships and rivalries in Florida politics.
As the election season heats up, all eyes will be on the Sunshine State and its influential political operatives.
- The Trump campaign has hired Brian Hughes, a seasoned Florida political operative.
- Hughes has previously worked with Governor Ron DeSantis and Jacksonville's Republican mayor.
- Susie Wiles, a key adviser to Trump, has also worked with DeSantis in the past.
- Florida's winner-take-all Republican presidential primary is set for March 19.
- DeSantis' political decisions, especially in Jacksonville, have been under scrutiny.
