Trump commends excellent meeting with DeSantis in Florida - this marks their initial interaction since the governor exited the GOP race.
The encounter – the initial discussion since DeSantis left the GOP primary in January – was instigated by Steve Witkoff, a long-time friend of Trump and luxury real estate developer, on behalf of DeSantis, according to a close acquaintance of Trump. This piece of information was initially exposed by The Washington Post.
DeSantis was enjoying a game of golf at Shell Bay Club and agreed to have breakfast with Trump, said a source.
"Had a fantastic meeting yesterday arranged by mutual friend Steve Witkoff at his stunning Shell Bay Club in Hollywood, Florida," Trump penned on Truth Social on Monday. "The conversation primarily revolved around how we could join forces to make the United States great again."
The presumptive GOP nominee emphasized in his post that he was "extremely gratified to have DeSantis' fervent support" behind him.
Gracious with DeSantis' support, Trump's fundraiser is being hosted by Witkoff in Miami next Sunday, based on a replica of the invitation procured by CNN.
In an appreciation retreat earlier this month, DeSantis pledged to help raise funds for Trump, two acquainted with the plans told CNN.
"I think his finance committee will resonate with his decision, and his donors will too," stated DeSantis' Texas business associate, Roy Bailey, on Monday. "Therefore, you can deliver immense value to the Trump campaign."
After his presidential campaign sabotage, DeSantis endorsed Trump for the GOP race but has not shared the limelight with him at any of his events since.
As CNN revealed in February, DeSantis has worked diligently to maintain relationships with the individuals who once backed his presidential run, including financial contributors and primary state officials, during his 2028 aspirations.
"I've not ruled out any possibilities," DeSantis stated privately to his admirers during a confidential conversation, according to numerous news outlets that reviewed a recording and verified the content to CNN by three individuals who listened to the call. Additionally, he expressed his disinterest in any vice-presidential position on that call.
UPDATE: This story has been clarified to detail the occurrence of Trump and DeSantis' meeting in the Miami metro area on Sunday and DeSantis' reaction to it.
Steve Contorno and Alayna Treene from CNN also collaborated on this report.
Read also:
Source: edition.cnn.com
