Chief strategist Jeff Roe has stepped down in a significant shake-up within Governor Ron DeSantis' presidential campaign.
Jeff Roe, the chief architect of Gov. Ron DeSantis' presidential bid, resigned amid internal chaos and criticism within the campaign's supporting super PAC, Never Back Down.
Jeff Roe, a seasoned political consultant, had been instrumental in shaping DeSantis' political ascent. His departure, announced on Saturday, follows a tumultuous period marked by internal disputes and strategic disagreements within the Never Back Down super PAC.
According to reports, Roe's resignation came just hours after the Washington Post published an exposé detailing dysfunction within the super PAC. The article highlighted numerous issues, including concerns about legal compliance and internal conflicts.
Since late November, Never Back Down has witnessed the departure of five senior officials, with three others being dismissed. This exodus reflects a broader discontent and organizational turmoil within the campaign's ranks.
Adding to these woes, sources close to the campaign have expressed frustration over the super PAC's leadership and its advertising strategies. This dissatisfaction has seemingly played a role in Roe's decision to leave.
Roe's departure marks a pivotal moment in Gov. DeSantis' presidential campaign. His role as the chief architect of the campaign was pivotal, and his absence raised questions about the campaign's future direction.
DeSantis, currently polling second in Iowa, has struggled to regain momentum in key states like New Hampshire. The campaign's inability to solidify its standing despite high expectations has been a concern.
Speaking about his resignation, Roe stated:
"I cannot in good conscience stay affiliated with Never Back Down given the statements in the Washington Post today. They are not true and an unwanted distraction at a critical time for Governor DeSantis."
Never Back Down was envisaged as a pioneering force in super PAC-driven presidential campaigns. However, its journey has been marred by setbacks and has fallen short of transforming DeSantis' campaign into the powerhouse it was expected to be.
The creation of a new pro-DeSantis super PAC in November further fragmented the support, diluting the impact of Never Back Down. This fragmentation points to a strategic misalignment and lack of cohesive direction within the campaign's support structure.
Reflecting on the broader implications of the super PAC's struggles, a campaign insider commented:
"The super PAC model of winning a presidential primary, I think, is staggering, if not on the ropes. And if you’re going to have a successful presidential primary campaign you need to be able to raise hard dollars."
The DeSantis campaign faces a critical juncture with the Iowa caucuses scheduled for January 15, 2024. The departure of Roe and the ongoing turmoil within the super PAC pose significant challenges as the campaign enters a crucial phase.
DeSantis' campaign, launched in May, has not created the expected wave of support. The recent developments add to the hurdles that need to be overcome to make a significant impact in the upcoming primaries.
