“DeSantis completely misunderstood his own popularity. “
I agree, DeSantis started out to the right of Trump, with a good track record as governor and the right position with Disney and other social issues. Then he started taking money from RINO donors and listening to their advice. At one point I thought he might make a good VP to Trump. But now not so sure. He needs to rid himself of his advisors and most of his donors and go back to being a great governor.
Regarding debates, why should Trump expose himself to bias moderators and questions, while giving his competitors an a greatly increased audience. Just go with a live interview with Tucker during a competing time slot and steal what’s left of the audience away from the debate.
My take, FWIW, His "donors and advisors" were specifically targeting him, to pre-emptively disqualify him in the eyes of conservative (read majority). They were not helping him, they were destroying him, and so far have exceeded even their own predictions and targets.
It is the same ploy they used to destroy Trump.
Get in close, as friends, then destroy while feint praising.
It is how politics is played since Igor used a femur to call the meeting to order.
I agree with you on the debates. The “also running” are a side-show. I don’t say that out of disrespect but as a simple truth. Trump is the show. I expect the debate views to be very low. Trump’s views will be like they always are. Strong.