In the ever-evolving landscape of American politics, creative maneuvering is becoming increasingly commonplace. Ron DeSantis, the current governor of Florida, is no stranger to bold moves. With his term-limited in 2026, speculation is growing about whether he could find a way back to the governorship as early as 2028. Surprisingly, this scenario isn’t entirely far-fetched, especially in an era where political norms are routinely defied.
A Bold, Yet Legally Feasible Strategy
Under Florida law, governors are limited to serving two consecutive terms. DeSantis, having been elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2022, will reach that limit in January 2027. The term limit bars him from immediately running for a third consecutive term as governor. However, Florida’s constitution does not expressly forbid a former two-term governor from running for the office of lieutenant governor.
This legal ambiguity opens a door for a strategic comeback. If DeSantis ran on a ticket as the lieutenant governor in the 2026 election and that ticket won, he would be positioned just a heartbeat away from the governorship. If the newly elected governor were to resign—whether due to unforeseen circumstances or a planned transition—DeSantis would ascend to the role of governor once more.
Circumventing Term Limits?
Such a maneuver would undoubtedly raise eyebrows. Critics would argue that this strategy subverts the spirit of term limits, designed to prevent an indefinite hold on executive power. However, proponents could point out that there is no explicit legal barrier preventing it. Given that political norms have increasingly fallen by the wayside, especially in the past decade, it’s not hard to imagine this scenario playing out.
The idea of a two-term governor returning to office through a lieutenant governorship isn’t entirely outlandish in today’s political climate. If DeSantis is as politically ambitious as his record suggests, it’s plausible that he could consider such a route. The Florida electorate, known for its sharp political divides, would certainly be treated to a spectacle.
The Risks and Rewards
Executing this plan would come with significant risks. Legal challenges would almost certainly be mounted, possibly reaching the state Supreme Court. The public perception of such a move could also backfire, with accusations of undermining democracy and manipulating the system for personal gain. Yet, for a politician like DeSantis, who has never shied away from controversy, the rewards of reclaiming the governorship might outweigh the drawbacks.
Moreover, the lieutenant governor position is typically seen as a stepping stone or a backup role. Having a figure as high-profile as DeSantis in that position would be unprecedented. The arrangement would undoubtedly invite intense scrutiny and reshape expectations for future term-limited politicians.
The Path Forward
While purely speculative, this scenario reflects the creativity politicians may deploy in navigating term limits and maintaining influence. In an era when traditional constraints seem more pliable than ever, the boundaries of what is politically possible are continually being tested.
If DeSantis does consider this path, it would set a fascinating precedent, forever altering the calculus of term-limited offices. For now, Floridians and political observers across the country will have to wait and see. Yet, one thing remains certain: DeSantis is a politician who knows how to keep people guessing.
