He does not believe Trump is saying the right things.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican presidential hopeful, offered critical remarks about former President Donald Trump’s recent immigration comments, which have drawn comparisons to Adolf Hitler’s rhetoric. DeSantis, in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network, expressed his view that Trump’s words did not contribute positively to addressing border issues, stating that such language didn’t aid in confronting President Joe Biden’s border policies.
DeSantis highlighted his concern about the use of such terms, mentioning that he believed it didn’t advance any productive discussion. He emphasized his reluctance to employ similar language himself. This sentiment was echoed by fellow GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley in her interview with the Des Moines Register, where she described Trump’s remarks as unhelpful, non-constructive, and unnecessary.
Several Senate Republicans and another GOP presidential contender, Chris Christie, employed stronger language in their criticism of Trump’s comments. Biden’s re-election campaign also censured Trump, drawing parallels to Hitler’s rhetoric. Despite the backlash, Trump stood by his remarks during a rally in Iowa, reiterating his view that illegal border crossings were damaging the country but dismissing comparisons to Hitler’s use of similar language by stating a lack of familiarity with “Mein Kampf.”
Regarding DeSantis’ reaction, a spokesperson referenced an earlier Fox News interview where DeSantis admitted uncertainty about the intent behind Trump’s words. DeSantis acknowledged the historical references drawn by some but expressed his lack of clarity about Trump’s intended meaning with the phrase involving “blood.”
In a separate statement on Monday, DeSantis reiterated his confusion, indicating uncertainty about the context of Trump’s words and suggesting ambiguity in interpreting the phrase regarding “blood.”
