In the world of politics, campaigns are constantly under scrutiny, and candidates face immense pressure to connect with voters and secure their support. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who has been exploring a potential presidential run, has experienced a shift in tone from conservative media outlets. This change has significant implications for DeSantis and his campaign, as it highlights the challenges he faces in gaining traction and competing against other candidates, particularly former President Trump. In this article, we delve into the reasons why this shift matters and explore the key factors contributing to DeSantis’ evolving relationship with conservative media.

• The Early Days:

When DeSantis first announced his campaign, there were high hopes and expectations surrounding his political vision. Conservative media outlets, such as Fox News, initially portrayed him as a promising candidate with the potential to make a significant impact. In an interview with Fox News host Brian Kilmeade, DeSantis showcased his athleticism by throwing a baseball, symbolizing his determination and readiness to tackle the challenges ahead.

• The Shift in Tone:

However, as DeSantis progressed in his campaign, conservative hosts started asking more critical questions, signaling a change in their perception of his candidacy. Fox News host Will Cain, for instance, recently questioned DeSantis about his poll numbers, emphasizing the disconnect he seemed to have with certain voters. Cain’s inquiry reflects a growing sentiment within conservative media that DeSantis may be facing challenges in effectively connecting with the electorate, despite his demonstrated leadership in Florida.

• Media Criticism and Concerns:

Maria Bartiromo, another prominent Fox News host, voiced concerns about the progress of DeSantis’ campaign. While acknowledging his successful stance against “woke” culture, Bartiromo questioned the current state of his candidacy, referring to the initial optimism that surrounded his presidential bid. Her line of questioning suggests that DeSantis may have encountered setbacks and obstacles along the campaign trail, leading to doubts among conservative media figures.

• DeSantis’ Response:

In response to the media scrutiny and declining poll numbers, DeSantis has criticized the media itself, attributing their negative coverage to an underlying agenda against his campaign. He posits that certain forces do not want him to become the nominee, hence the intensified attacks from media outlets. This defensive approach serves as an attempt to rally his supporters and redirect attention away from the criticisms he faces.

• The Influence of Murdoch-Owned Outlets:

Notably, the New York Post, owned by media mogul Rupert Murdoch, has also contributed to the growing criticism of DeSantis. The publication covered the backlash against a video released by DeSantis, which aimed to highlight Trump’s previous support for the LGBTQ community. Fox News, another Murdoch-owned outlet, further amplified the coverage by featuring influential Republican strategist Karl Rove, who deemed the video an “unforced error.” This exposure from Murdoch’s media empire indicates a broader shift within conservative media towards a more skeptical stance on DeSantis’ campaign.

• Trump’s Role:

Former President Trump, the frontrunner in the Republican primary, also plays a significant role in the evolving narrative surrounding DeSantis’ campaign. Trump’s relationship with Fox News has become increasingly tense, with reports suggesting that he feels snubbed by the network’s coverage of DeSantis. Since the 2020 presidential election, Trump has expressed growing distrust towards Fox News, and he has yet to commit to participating in the network’s first debate. These tensions have influenced the overall perception of DeSantis within conservative media circles.

Governor Ron DeSantis’ campaign for the presidency has encountered hurdles and faced a shift in tone from conservative media outlets. The initial optimism and positive coverage have given way to critical inquiries and skepticism regarding DeSantis’ ability to connect with voters effectively. While media scrutiny and declining poll numbers present challenges for his campaign, DeSantis has responded by criticizing the media’s intentions and framing their coverage as biased. The influence of Murdoch-owned outlets, coupled with former President Trump’s dynamic with Fox News, has contributed to this evolving narrative. As DeSantis navigates the complexities of his campaign, it remains to be seen how he will address these challenges and regain the support of conservative media.