As he seeks to energize his presidential campaign, Republican contender and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is introducing a significant change in his campaign team.
James Uthmeier, previously DeSantis’ state office Chief of Staff, will now take the reins as the campaign manager. This decision means he will succeed Generra Peck, who had been pivotal in DeSantis’ gubernatorial reelection campaign before taking the same position for his presidential run. Notably, Peck will not depart from the campaign entirely but will serve as a strategist.
This reconfiguration follows DeSantis’ recent move of downsizing his staff by around a third in late July, prompted by budgetary constraints.
Andrew Romeo, the campaign spokesperson, voiced his confidence in Uthmeier, saying, “James Uthmeier has consistently been among Governor DeSantis’ most trusted confidantes. His collaboration with Generra Peck and the entire team aims to strengthen the Governor’s prospects in the primary and subsequently against Joe Biden.”
However, Uthmeier’s record has had its share of controversy. Last October, Politico unveiled texts implicating Uthmeier in a program transporting migrants from Texas to Martha’s Vineyard. Moreover, an NBC News report in June spotlighted Uthmeier’s dual roles as both a member of DeSantis’ state office and a fundraiser for his presidential campaign. This blend prompted ethical concerns from government oversight entities. Before his stint with DeSantis, Uthmeier’s tenure in the Trump administration under U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross came under scrutiny due to his involvement in a contentious 2020 census citizenship question.
The campaign will also be bolstered by adding David Polyansky, an operative from a supportive super PAC titled Never Back Down, as deputy campaign manager. Citing Polyansky’s expertise in the pivotal state of Iowa, Romeo labelled him an “indispensable addition.” Polyansky’s impressive track record includes roles in the presidential campaigns of Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker and Texas Senator Ted Cruz in 2016. His guidance was also instrumental in Joni Ernst’s 2014 U.S. Senate victory in Iowa and Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee’s 2008 victory in the Iowa GOP caucuses.
Interestingly, DeSantis and Polyansky were seen together in Iowa recently. Polyansky participated in events held by Never Back Down and another where DeSantis endorsed Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird. This interaction hints at Never Back Down’s growing influence beyond DeSantis’ formal campaign mechanisms.
In the intricate dance of political campaigns, changes in strategy and personnel shifts can be pivotal. As Governor Ron DeSantis reshuffles his campaign team, he aims for a fresh impetus in his bid for the presidency. With seasoned operatives like Uthmeier and Polyansky now in commanding roles, DeSantis’ campaign hopes to resonate more powerfully with voters, ensuring his message reaches them and strikes a chord. The coming months will be critical in gauging the success of these changes and the future trajectory of his campaign.
