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 currently serving as the 46th Governor of Florida since 2019. A Republican, he previously served as a U.S. Representative for Florida's 6th congressional district from 2013 to 2018. Prior to his political career, DeSantis was an attorney and a naval officer. He sought the Republican presidential nomination in 2024 but withdrew from the race in January of that year.

Sections (6)

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

2001: Graduated from Yale and Best Batting Average

In 2001, DeSantis graduated from Yale with a B.A., magna cum laude. As a senior in 2001, he also had the team's best batting average at .336 as the captain of Yale's varsity baseball team.

2012: Elected to U.S. House of Representatives

In 2012, DeSantis ran for the U.S. House of Representatives from Florida's 6th congressional district and was elected after defeating six candidates in the Republican primary in August and then defeating Democratic nominee Heather Beaven in the November general election.

2012: First Elected to Congress

In 2012, DeSantis was first elected to Congress.

2014: Reelected to Congress

In 2014, DeSantis was reelected to Congress.

2014: Reelected to U.S. House of Representatives

In 2014, DeSantis was reelected to the U.S. House of Representatives.

2015: Named a "Taxpayer Superhero"

Conservative think tank Citizens Against Government Waste named DeSantis a "Taxpayer Superhero" in 2015.

2016: Reelected to U.S. House of Representatives

In 2016, DeSantis was reelected to the U.S. House of Representatives.

2018: Won Republican Nomination and Gubernatorial Election

After winning the Republican nomination in the 2018 gubernatorial election, DeSantis defeated Tallahassee mayor and Democratic nominee Andrew Gillum by 0.4%.