Mixed Outcomes for DeSantis-Backed School Board Candidates in Florida

Gov. Ron DeSantis' campaign to extend his conservative education policies in Florida schools faced setbacks on Tuesday. Preliminary results indicate that more of the 23 school board candidates he endorsed lost their races than won. Unofficial tallies show 11 candidates backed by DeSantis were defeated, including some incumbents in conservative-leaning areas.

DeSantis acknowledged on Wednesday that efforts to make school boards more conservative were more successful two years ago but noted ongoing progress. "Some of them that came up short, that's going to be something they can build on for future election cycles," DeSantis said. "If you look at where we were four or five years ago versus where we are now, there's much more interest on these school boards in protecting the rights of parents."

Mixed Results for DeSantis-Endorsed Candidates

Six of DeSantis' preferred candidates won their races, while another six advanced to a November runoff after no one in their contests secured over 50% of the vote. These runoffs could still swing in DeSantis' favour. However, critics argue that the results are a rejection of his education agenda.

Eileen Long, a Pinellas County School Board member who won re-election, stated, "We sent a message across this state and across this country that governors, number one, should not get involved." Long defeated a candidate backed by DeSantis and Moms for Liberty in a closely watched race in one of the state's largest swing counties.

Impact on Public Education

DeSantis has built his national profile by engaging in culture wars and restricting what Florida schools can teach about systemic racism and gender identity. Although this approach did not secure him his party's presidential nomination, he continues to push these policies in Florida schools, potentially affecting public education long after his tenure.

During the 2022 elections, 83% of DeSantis-endorsed candidates advanced, reinforcing the state's rightward shift in education. This year, preliminary results show a 52% success rate for his candidates. The governor questioned why left-leaning candidates retaining seats in left-leaning areas should be seen as significant victories.

Parental Rights Movement Losing Momentum?

University of Miami political scientist Matt Nelsen suggested that Tuesday's results might indicate waning support for the parental rights movement among primary voters. "I think perhaps what we're seeing is the critical race theory fever is breaking," Nelsen said. "Many parents want their kids to receive educational content that tells an inclusive account of American history."

Despite some wins for DeSantis-endorsed candidates in Democratic-leaning Duval County and other conservative parts of the state, there were notable losses. These included an incumbent board member in Indian River County and the current chair of the board in Sarasota County, areas linked to some founders of Moms for Liberty.

The Florida Democratic Party endorsed fewer school board candidates than DeSantis but saw better results. Nine out of their 11 preferred candidates either won their races or advanced to a runoff.

The mixed outcomes suggest that while DeSantis' influence remains strong in some areas, there is growing resistance to his conservative education agenda. This evolving dynamic could shape future election cycles and the broader educational landscape in Florida.