Report: DeSantis Seeks Key Role in Trump Administration Amid Speculation on AG, Defense, or Supreme Court Positions

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is reportedly seeking a prominent role in a potential second Trump administration, including positions such as attorney general, secretary of defense, or even a Supreme Court appointment, according to sources briefed on the discussions.

Why it matters: DeSantis, who must leave office at the end of his second term in January 2025, is exploring his next steps. One source noted that Trump is inclined to consider assisting his former understudy, rival, and now ally.

Key Details from Recent Discussions

DeSantis’ future was a topic of conversation after he and Trump met for lunch at Trump National Doral Golf Club in Miami on Sunday, June 1, 2025.

"Ron was begging me to be AG," Trump reportedly told a confidant, who relayed the remark to Axios.

Another source added, "There was a conversation at that lunch. I don't think AG is real. But he's gonna be looking for work and Trump likes him."

Recent Shifts in Trump’s Cabinet

DeSantis’ discussions with Trump gained traction in recent weeks after the president dismissed Kristi Noem as homeland security secretary and Pam Bondi as attorney general.

Todd Blanche, Trump’s personal lawyer and former No. 2 at the Justice Department under Bondi, currently serves as acting attorney general. An adviser noted that Trump wants Blanche to indict several of the president’s political opponents as part of the "Grand Conspiracy" case being handled in the Southern District of Florida.

"Todd has about 90 days to show what he can do," the adviser said.

DeSantis’ Stated Priorities

The White House declined to comment. DeSantis’ spokesperson, Alex Lanfranconi, issued a statement saying the governor "enjoys a great relationship with President Trump."

"Some in the media prefer to focus on fake rumors rather than the many accomplishments of Florida's partnership with the Trump administration," Lanfranconi added. "The governor looks forward to continuing to work with President Trump on enforcing immigration laws, restoring the Everglades, and helping to reform college athletics."

Timeline of Discussions

DeSantis first began discussing a potential appointment with Trump last year, following Trump’s reelection. At the time, Trump considered DeSantis for the role of secretary of defense but ultimately chose Pete Hegseth, then a Fox News commentator.

Sources say Trump would strongly consider DeSantis for the defense secretary position if Hegseth were to leave.

"DeSantis is 100% not interested in the AG job, but he would be interested in two things: War secretary or Supreme Court, which would be his dream job," said another source familiar with the discussions.

DeSantis and conservative Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas reportedly share a close relationship, described as "almost a father-son dynamic," making a Supreme Court appointment a potential legacy move for Trump.

Political Context and Past Tensions

DeSantis ran a brief but contentious primary campaign against Trump in the 2024 election cycle. Despite the rivalry, Trump advisers suggest the past is behind them.

"Bygones are bygones," said one Trump adviser. "But that doesn't mean people forget."

Another adviser noted, "There's a big reason the president wouldn't pick Ron to be his attorney general: There's a way-too-high"