Ron DeSantis's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Ron DeSantis. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Ron DeSantis is an American politician and attorney, currently serving as the 46th Governor of Florida since 2019. Before becoming governor, DeSantis served as a U.S. Representative for Florida's 6th congressional district from 2013 to 2018. A Republican, DeSantis ran for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination but withdrew his candidacy in January 2024. He is a former naval officer.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1949: Posthumous Pardon of the Groveland Four

On January 11, 2019, three days after taking office, DeSantis posthumously pardoned the Groveland Four, a group of black men falsely convicted of rape in 1949.

1982: Largest Victory Margin Since 1982

In the November 8 election, DeSantis won by the largest margin of victory in a Florida gubernatorial election since 1982.

1986: Won Palm Beach County

In the November 8 election, DeSantis won Palm Beach County, which had not voted Republican since 1986.

2002: Won Miami-Dade County

In the November 8 election, DeSantis won Miami-Dade County, which had last voted Republican in 2002.

2015: Named a "Taxpayer Superhero"

In 2015, Ron DeSantis was named a "Taxpayer Superhero" by Citizens Against Government Waste.

August 28, 2018: Won Republican Primary

On August 28, 2018, Ron DeSantis won the Republican primary for governor, defeating Adam Putnam.

September 2022: DeSantis Declares State of Emergency for Hurricane Ian

In September 2022, DeSantis declared a state of emergency for all of Florida as Hurricane Ian approached and asked for federal aid ahead of time.

2022: DeSantis named in Time 100 list and becomes millionaire

In 2022, DeSantis appeared on Time 100, Time's annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world. His $1.25 million book deal with HarperCollins in 2022 made him a millionaire by the end of that year.