New book reveals how Roger Stone stopped Donald Trump from slamming Ron DeSantis in Florida

Trump was eager to criticize DeSantis, despite warnings from staff and top advisers that it was a bad idea, especially in Florida. The planning of the November 2022 event added to the tension, as DeSantis was not invited, leading to speculation about their relationship. Though the Trump camp did not explicitly bar DeSantis, they also didn't extend a personal invitation. Alex Latcham, a former White House deputy political director, invited all statewide elected officials, including DeSantis.

As Trump's speaking slot approached, advisers urged him not to attack DeSantis for a second night. They feared it would put other prominent Florida Republicans, like Joe Gruters and Rick Scott, in an awkward position, potentially turning the event into an anti-DeSantis rally. Gruters, a strong Trump ally, had chosen Trump's rally over DeSantis's in the past, reflecting their icy relationship.

Despite the advisers' efforts, Trump was not convinced and sought someone to dissuade him. Roger Stone, a veteran political adviser and close Trump confidant, played that role, advising Trump that "now is not the time" to attack DeSantis.


However, Stone's influence waned as evidenced by his subsequent anti-DeSantis comments after the 2022 midterms. Stone, a long-time Trump adviser, harbored animosity towards DeSantis, evident in his previous attacks during the 2018 gubernatorial primary. Stone continued to criticize DeSantis, even after Trump's reluctance to attack him at the Miami rally.

In a meeting with Stone after Trump dined with controversial figures, including white nationalist Nick Fuentes, Stone's calming influence diminished. Stone had been a Trump supporter, but his deep-seated disdain for DeSantis persisted. Stone previewed potential attack lines against DeSantis, criticizing him over foreign policy decisions and suggesting that he might shift the Republican Party's base.

The situation became more complicated as controversies, like Ye's positive comments about Hitler, unfolded. Stone, despite being a staunch Trump ally, found himself dealing with these controversies, indicating the complexities and divisions within the Republican Party as it approached the 2024 primary.