DeSantis' Education Agenda Falters in Florida

In a setback for Governor Ron DeSantis, preliminary election results indicate that more of the 23 school board candidates he endorsed in Florida lost their races than won. DeSantis acknowledged the defeats but suggested that those who fell short could use the experience to build for future elections. He emphasized a growing interest in school boards regarding parental rights, despite the disappointing outcomes for his endorsed candidates, particularly in swing counties like Pinellas, which includes St. Petersburg. Incumbent board members in Pinellas County successfully defended their seats against challengers backed by DeSantis and the local chapter of Moms for Liberty. Current chair Laura Hine and fellow incumbent Eileen Long both secured significant victories, with Hine receiving 69% of the vote. Long also triumphed with 54%, while a third race in the county is headed for a runoff. Critics of DeSantis' agenda argue that the public is weary of the aggressive tactics employed by his supporters. Despite the losses, DeSantis did see some success in Democratic-leaning Duval County, where conservatives will gain a majority on the school board. However, notable defeats occurred in areas like Indian River and Sarasota counties, which are home to key figures in the Moms for Liberty movement. In contrast, the Florida Democratic Party, which endorsed fewer candidates, saw a higher success rate, with nine of its eleven preferred candidates either winning or advancing to runoffs.