Florida Republicans Line Up to Challenge DeSantis

Crist, Fried, and Demings Emerge as Leading Contenders

Former governor, agriculture commissioner, and Orlando police chief seek to unseat incumbent in 2022

As Florida Governor Ron DeSantis gears up for his reelection campaign in 2022, a growing number of Republicans are lining up to challenge him in the primary. Among the most prominent contenders are former governor Charlie Crist, former agriculture commissioner Nikki Fried, and Orlando police chief John Mina.

Crist, a moderate Republican who served as governor from 2007 to 2011, has been a vocal critic of DeSantis' handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and his support for former President Donald Trump. Fried, a Democrat who switched parties in 2018, has also been critical of DeSantis' policies, particularly his environmental record. Mina, a Republican who has served as Orlando's police chief since 2019, is considered a rising star in the party and has been endorsed by several law enforcement organizations.

The Republican primary is expected to be fiercely contested, as each of the candidates has their own strengths and weaknesses. Crist has the name recognition and experience of a former governor, while Fried brings a fresh perspective and a strong base of support among Democrats. Mina is a well-respected law enforcement official who could appeal to conservative voters.

In addition to these three candidates, several other Republicans have expressed interest in running for governor, including state Senator Wilton Simpson, businessman Halsey Beshears, and former state representative Anthony Sabatini. However, Crist, Fried, and Mina are considered the frontrunners in the race.

The Republican primary will be held on August 23, 2022, and the winner will face the Democratic nominee in the general election on November 8, 2022.