Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has described the Republicans’ crushing defeat in the U.S. midterm elections as a political disaster that could weaken the party for years, distancing himself from President Donald Trump over the causes of the losses.

”This is close to an extinction-level event for Republicans in many parts of the country,” Mr DeSantis said at an appearance in Florida on Wednesday. ”This was not a positive view of the Democrats. This was a rejection of Republicans in Washington.” 

He added that the defeat was the “political equivalent of a meteor strike”. 

The party lost control of both chambers of Congress in Tuesday’s elections.

Mr DeSantis broke with Mr Trump, who blamed Republican candidates for the defeat and argued that his own popularity had not translated into support for them. He acknowledged, however, that the war with Iran and the resulting rise in fuel prices had contributed to the losses.

Mr DeSantis warned that Republicans might struggle to regain control of Congress for years. He said he did not expect the party to win back a Senate majority in 2028 and also considered a House majority unlikely.

Mr DeSantis challenged Mr Trump for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024 but dropped out after a poor result in the Iowa caucuses and later endorsed him. He has not ruled out another presidential bid in 2028. 

Asked about his plans in March, he said, “We’ll see.” His term as Florida governor ends in January.

He also highlighted Republican success in Florida, where the party maintained its position despite losses elsewhere, crediting his administration’s record and voters’ trust. 

(spa/NAN)