DeSantis puts his imprint on school board races in Florida

By ADRIANA GOMEZ LICON
Associated Press

MIAMI (AP) — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ effort to place candidates fully aligned with his conservative views on school boards throughout the state is helping him expand his influence. Of the 30 candidates endorsed by DeSantis in the Aug. 23 elections, 19 won, five lost and six are headed to runoffs. The endorsements highlight DeSantis’ expanding sphere of influence as he runs for reelection as governor this year and considers a 2024 presidential bid. It also shows his success in leveraging culture war battles over education, anti-racism policies and COVID-19 restrictions into support from voters.