DeSantis press secretary steps down to join governor’s political team as 2024 talks swirl

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FLV) – Gov. Ron DeSantis’ press secretary, Bryan Griffin, is stepping down to join the governor’s political team, separate from his official state office.

Fox News first reported the departure.

“I believe that Governor DeSantis is the only leader who can see us to victory at this critical moment in American history,” Griffin said. “If I can be even a small part of the revival and restoration of our great nation, then I am prepared to give it my all.”

The departure comes as reports emerge of the governor’s “unofficial campaign staff” relocating out of the Republican Party of Florida’s Tallahassee-based office.

Griffin called his time as press secretary the “honor of a lifetime.”

He was preceded by Christina Pushaw, known for fiery comments against reporters for dishonestly covering the governor.

Pushaw previously departed her position in the Executive Office of the Governor to be DeSantis’ rapid response director in 2022. She remains on the governor’s political team.

Griffin pointed to numerous “extraordinary” accomplishments, which he said “can be replicated nationwide,” hinting at DeSantis potentially elevating to the position of U.S. president.

Those accomplishments include issues like targeting “woke” investing, central bank digital currency, diversity, equity and inclusion in higher education, preventing indoctrination in K-12 education, anti-lockdown and anti-mandate COVID-19 policies, and more.

“Our nation is currently burdened with historic challenges,” Griffin continued. “The challenges can be overcome, and America is worth the fight.”

“I believe that Governor DeSantis is the only leader who can see us to victory at this critical moment in America history,” he said. “I am stepping away from this role to pursue other avenues of helping to deliver the governor’s success to our country.”