Gov. Ron DeSantis officially enters second term in office with inauguration in Tallahassee
Florida governor's second inauguration held Tuesday
Gov. Ron DeSantis is beginning the new year, ready for his inauguration. His second term as governor of Florida begins today during a special swearing-in ceremony. He has a big year ahead of him. Here's a look at what the governor is expected to have on his agenda.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Four years ago, Ron DeSantis became the youngest governor in Florida in over a century. On Tuesday, he took the oath of office for a second time, officially kicking off his second term as the 46th governor of the Sunshine State.
Unlike 2018's narrow victory, DeSantis won re-election by a landslide. He received a resounding vote of confidence in November, with Florida voters handing him a 20-point victory.
He's also rapidly risen to national prominence, prompting speculation about an early exit to make a bid for president. He'll also have an even stronger super majority in his legislature this time around, which will likely continue working closely with DeSantis' office in crafting policies that support his agenda.
Tuesday, he appeared alongside his wife, Casey, as he was sworn in with Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez at noon.
After the ceremony took place on the steps of the Old Capitol, DeSantis spoke at length about keeping the state open during the pandemic. In his inaugural address four years ago, DeSantis struck a bit of a bipartisan tone, with a particular focus on the environment and fighting blue-green algae.
Tuesday's inauguration is also an important fundraising opportunity. DeSantis' team has been offering plenty of VIP perks to the events, including $50,000 to million-dollar donation-level packages. According to the Miami Herald and Politico, there was an exclusive candlelight dinner on Monday night and there will be a black-tie inaugural ball Tuesday.
The governor, so far, has not made any announcements about a potential presidential run, but some political analysts say they expect that to come within a year. DeSantis’ allies expect the governor to make a presidential announcement after the state legislative session, which ends in May. Until then, they expect him to focus on governing and avoid engaging directly with former President Donald Trump.