LOS ANGELES — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, viewed as the greatest GOP threat to former President Trump's 2024 White House campaign, is visiting Southern California this weekend to promote his new book and curry favor as he raises money for Republicans in conservative strong-holds.
DeSantis, who frequently tangles with California's Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, has not officially announced a presidential bid. However, his Sunday appearances in front of nearly 2,000 well-heeled donors and influential Republicans in Simi Valley and Anaheim is yet another signal that he's considering a bid for the GOP nomination.
California is a well-worn stop for presidential contenders because the state is a top source of campaign cash for politicians in both parties. DeSantis' visit also comes days after a poll shows he has overtaken Trump among the state's Republican voters as their choice to be their party's presidential nominee next year.
