"DeSantis' 2024 Campaign Faces Doubts and Disappointments"

In an exclusive interview with CNN, Governor Ron DeSantis downplayed concerns about the state of his 2024 presidential campaign, despite cuts in staff and stalled polling. DeSantis dismissed the conflict in Ukraine as a "secondary or tertiary interest" and avoided supporting national abortion restrictions similar to the six-week ban he signed in Florida. Concerns have been raised by Republican donors and operatives who believe DeSantis is too focused on the priorities of the most conservative factions in his party. DeSantis also faced criticism for his dismissal of "wokeness" and his recent video criticizing Trump's promise to protect LGBTQ rights. Despite these challenges, DeSantis remains optimistic about his chances of defeating Trump and emphasized his pro-life stance.