In a startling escalation of intra-party rivalry, a scathing message from former President Donald Trump's team attacked Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis this Thursday.

The conflict reached a new height with a statement posted on Truth Social, wherein Trump’s team labeled DeSantis as "thirsty" and likened him to an "OnlyFans model."

The harsh critique, issued on Trump's social media platform, Truth Social, came on the day DeSantis was scheduled to debate with California Governor Gavin Newsom on Fox News. The press release, titled "Kiss of Death," ramped up the ongoing feud between Trump and DeSantis.

Trump Spokesperson's Harsh Critique

According to Cheung, DeSantis' ambition seems to have shifted from politics to reality television, as evidenced by his participation in the debate with Newsom.

Cheung wrote:

It's never been clearer that Ron DeSanctus doesn't have his eye on the ball. Despite falling to FIFTH PLACE in New Hampshire and failing to gain any ground in Iowa for months, DeSantis appears to already be auditioning for a career in reality television, with tonight's circus with Gavin Newsom.

Escalating Campaign Rivalry

The rivalry between Trump and DeSantis has been brewing for some time, with both camps engaging in public sparring. The tension underscores the growing divide within the GOP as each side vies for dominance ahead of the next presidential election.

DeSantis, seen by many as a strong contender for the Republican nomination, has faced criticism from the Trump camp, particularly concerning his electability and potential effectiveness. The Trump campaign has emphasized these points in a bid to solidify Trump's position as the leading candidate.

Earlier this month, DeSantis commented on Trump's candidacy, raising concerns about Trump's potential as a nominee and his ability to govern effectively. These remarks add to the complexity of the GOP's internal dynamics as the party prepares for the upcoming election cycle.

Iowa Endorsements Give DeSantis Hope

Recent endorsements by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds and influential evangelical leader Bob Vander Plaats have given DeSantis' campaign a boost. Both figures signaled that they believe Trump can be defeated in Iowa.

Despite these endorsements, DeSantis trails Trump by a significant margin, according to Real Clear Politics average. The Florida Governor is standing in fifth place in New Hampshire and has failed to gain ground in Iowa for months.

Yet, there are voices in the Republican party who believe DeSantis could emerge as the front-runner in Iowa if Trump was not in the race.

Winning Iowa: A Steep Hill for DeSantis

David Avella, chairman of GOPAC and a veteran Republican strategist, stated that DeSantis' biggest challenge is Trump's decision to compete in Iowa. To win, DeSantis needs to convince undecided voters and those considering other candidates that his ideas are the best solutions.

From this perspective, DeSantis' debate with Newsom could be seen as an attempt to reach a wider audience and build his brand outside of Florida.

As the 2024 race heats up, the competition between Trump and DeSantis serves as a fascinating subplot in the GOP's quest for the White House.

Conclusion

• Trump's team has launched a scathing attack on GOP opponent Ron DeSantis, accusing him of being more interested in attention than serious campaigning.
• The feud between the two campaigns continues, with DeSantis positioning himself as a viable alternative to Trump.
• Despite receiving noteworthy endorsements in Iowa, DeSantis trails Trump by a significant margin in polls.
• The success of DeSantis' campaign could hinge on his ability to convince undecided voters and those considering other candidates.