Ron DeSantis: When Florida Governor's Term Ends, Can He Run Again?

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Ron DeSantis: When Florida Governor's Term Ends, Can He Run Again?

Florida's political landscape is buzzing with speculation about what the future holds for Governor Ron DeSantis. With his current term ending in 2023, questions linger about his eligibility for another gubernatorial run. Let's delve into the intricacies of Florida's term limits and determine whether DeSantis can seek reelection or if he must pass the baton to a successor.

Florida's Constitution imposes term limits on elected officials, including the governor. According to Article IV, Section 8, the governor is limited to serving two consecutive four-year terms. This means that DeSantis, who was first elected in 2018 and began his second term in 2023, would not be eligible to run for a third consecutive term as governor.

However, there are exceptions to Florida's term limits law. The Constitution allows an elected official to seek a third consecutive term under the following circumstances:

• If the official is elected to fill an unexpired term of another governor who was removed from office or died.
• If the official serves as governor for less than two full years after an impeachment and removal from office.

Neither of these exceptions applies to Governor DeSantis. He was elected to a full four-year term in 2018 and has not been impeached or removed from office.

Despite the clear language of Florida's term limits law, speculation persists that DeSantis may find a way to run for a third term. Some supporters have suggested that he could run for another office, such as U.S. Senator or even President, and then resign to allow Lt. Governor Jeanette Nuñez to take over as governor. This maneuver would reset DeSantis's term limit clock and allow him to run for governor again in 2026.

It is important to note that such a move would be unprecedented and raises ethical concerns. Critics argue that it would undermine the spirit of term limits laws, which are designed to prevent elected officials from amassing too much power and ensure a more representative government.

Based on the current interpretation of Florida's term limits law and the lack of applicable exceptions, Governor Ron DeSantis is not eligible to run for a third consecutive term as governor. While supporters continue to speculate about potential loopholes or political maneuvers, the likelihood of DeSantis extending his governorship beyond 2026 appears slim. The Sunshine State will soon have the opportunity to usher in a new era of leadership.