New clash between Trump and DeSantis over Florida CFO appointment

Thursday 17 July 2025 - 10:20

By: Dakir Madiha

New clash between Trump and DeSantis over Florida CFO appointment

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has sparked a political battle with former President Donald Trump by appointing State Senator Blaise Ingoglia as the state’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The decision sets the stage for a high-stakes showdown in the 2026 election, as Trump has already endorsed State Senator Joe Gruters for the position.

DeSantis appoints Ingoglia as CFO

Announcing the appointment on Wednesday, DeSantis praised Ingoglia as a steadfast conservative and a “warrior” for Floridian values. Ingoglia, 54, is a businessman and staunch DeSantis ally who previously chaired the Florida Republican Party from 2015 to 2019. He will serve out the remainder of former CFO Jimmy Patronis’ term, following Patronis’ departure for a congressional seat earlier this year.

DeSantis lauded Ingoglia’s record, emphasizing his commitment to conservative principles and his willingness to tackle challenges head-on. Ingoglia echoed the governor’s sentiments, pledging to root out wasteful spending using the CFO’s audit authority and to act as a “conservative pitbull” in overseeing state finances, the insurance industry, and fire safety.

Trump backs Gruters in brewing election battle

The appointment sets the stage for a contentious race next year, as Ingoglia is expected to face Trump-backed State Senator Joe Gruters. Gruters, who chaired the Florida Republican Party from 2019 to 2023, has enlisted key figures from Trump’s 2024 campaign team, including strategist Chris LaCivita and pollster Tony Fabrizio.

DeSantis defended his decision to bypass Gruters, citing policy disagreements and voting records. The governor accused Gruters of supporting measures that violated Second Amendment rights, opposing accountability for teachers’ unions, and authoring legislation that conflicted with Florida’s immigration enforcement efforts, including the controversial migrant detention center dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz.” Ingoglia, by contrast, voted against these bills.

“If George Washington rose from the dead and asked me to appoint Joe Gruters, I’d still say no,” DeSantis remarked, emphasizing his commitment to voters’ mandates.

Broader implications for GOP unity

The clash underscores the growing rivalry between Trump and DeSantis, both prominent figures in the Republican Party. Trump’s endorsement of Gruters highlights his continued influence in shaping GOP contests, while DeSantis’ defiance signals his determination to chart an independent course. The outcome of next year’s election could serve as a litmus test for the direction of the Republican Party in Florida and beyond.