In times of crisis, true leadership reveals itself. While many buckle under pressure, opting for the path of least resistance, others rise with unwavering resolve. When a crisis hits, I want someone in my corner who has consistently shown what it means to lead when it matters most, and that is Governor Ron DeSantis. Whether pushing back against COVID hysteria, managing the devastation of brutal hurricanes, or standing up to union thugs, DeSantis has proven that he will lead with resolve, even if he must stand alone.
When COVID hit, many state leaders panicked, turning to draconian lockdowns and unconstitutional mandates. Governors like Tim Walz ‘led’ with heavy-handed approaches that decimated businesses, shuttered schools, and crushed individual liberty. Yet, while they were busy imposing restrictions, Ron DeSantis took an entirely different approach—one that, in my opinion, redefined what it means to be a leader.
Now, four years later, the results are clear. Florida ranks number one in outcomes for young students, while Minnesota’s outcomes have plunged below the national average for the first time this century. As Minneapolis burned for four consecutive days, Florida, under DeSantis’ leadership, has reached a 40-year low in violent crime by embracing the rule of law. As a Minnesotan who has seen it all up close, I can attest to the difference in leadership. We’ve lost more residents to Florida than any other state since the pandemic—a fact that Walz has obsessed over for years.
DeSantis’ leadership can also be seen in his ability to combat Mother Nature herself. Florida has faced several devastating hurricanes during his tenure, and each time, DeSantis responded with calm, efficient, and decisive action. Take Hurricane Ian, one of the most powerful storms to hit Florida in recent memory. In the face of widespread devastation, DeSantis mobilized resources quickly, ensuring those affected received aid in record time. Power was restored to millions of homes within days, and the coordination between local and federal agencies under his guidance was seamless.
Now, in the wake of Hurricane Helene, Ron DeSantis is not just leading Florida, but the entire Southeastern United States, acting almost as its very own de facto president. Just as he has done with past hurricanes, DeSantis was prepared, positioning Florida to assist other states that have struggled after Joe Biden and Kamala Harris failed to answer the call.
FEMA is even out of funds for the season, having misappropriated money to help illegal aliens. Yes, you heard that correctly—illegal aliens. At this point, American cities in Appalachia might rename themselves "Ukraine" just to be recognized by this administration.
It’s no wonder that, under DeSantis’ leadership, the free state of Florida has a stronger credit rating than the U.S. government. The state sends nearly six dollars for every dollar it receives from the federal government, and under DeSantis, Operation Blue Ridge has mobilized a coordinated effort involving six Florida agencies to provide aid to Appalachia.
You’d think after dealing with a Category 4 hurricane making landfall in his own state, while also assisting several others, DeSantis and his team might be tapped out, right? Wrong. He also managed to activate the National Guard to keep Florida's ports open amidst the Longshoremen Union strike. This move effectively neutralized their bargaining power and kept critical trade flowing during the crisis of Hurricane Helene. He called their bluff, and within hours, suspended their strike.
Could this be a glimpse of 2028, when Republicans send President Trump back to the White House and Ron DeSantis continues to build bridges across critical states like North Carolina?
No, literally. DeSantis sent literal tons of supplies and materials to help construct temporary bridges in Appalachia as they recover from Hurricane Helene.
Meanwhile, Governor Tim Walz activated the Minnesota National Guard four days after Ron DeSantis to assist North Carolinians—coincidentally, the same number of days it took for him to respond to Minneapolis when it was in flames. The parallels between superior leadership and incompetent governance cannot be overstated.
While others follow the media or cave under pressure from special interest groups, DeSantis leads with clarity, purpose, and an unyielding commitment to the people he serves. Whether facing down COVID hysteria, natural disasters, or the whims of entrenched union bosses, DeSantis doesn’t just talk about leadership—he exemplifies it.
At a time when America is starved for real leadership, DeSantis stands as a beacon of what is possible with conviction, courage, and an unwavering sense of duty. We need more leaders like him—leaders who don’t just navigate crises but rise to the challenge and emerge stronger. Dustin Grage is a Minnesota-based journalist, GOP strategist, and conservative activist. Stay updated on his latest work and subscribe for future contributions at www.dustingrage.com. Follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @GrageDustin.
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