Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Monday downplayed recent polls that indicate a decline in his potential support in the 2024 Republican presidential race, where he is seen as a possible challenger to former President Donald Trump, Newsmax reports.
While on a trip to Japan, DeSantis addressed reporters, saying, “I’m not a candidate, so we’ll see if and when that changes.”
His statement came in light of polls showing Trump’s lead over DeSantis widening.
The RealClear Politics polling aggregate revealed a 45.9% to 30.1% lead for Trump on March 31, which has since increased to 52.4% to 23.4%.
DeSantis is currently on an “international trade mission” representing Enterprise Florida, with the objective of fostering stronger economic ties with other nations.
His itinerary includes visits to Japan, South Korea, Israel, and the United Kingdom.
Before affirming he is not, at least yet, a 2024 presidential candidate, the Florida governor met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to discuss regional issues, as part of his four-nation trade mission to raise his diplomatic profile ahead of a potential presidential run.
Kishida emphasized the importance of strengthening Japan-U.S. ties for global peace and prosperity, according to a Japanese Foreign Ministry statement.
The Florida governor has indicated that he will announce his decision regarding the 2024 race after the Florida legislature concludes its sessions at the end of May.
A recent Wall Street Journal poll shows DeSantis trailing Trump 51% to 38% among likely Republican primary voters.
