Rep. Val Demings (D-Fla.) revealed she is “seriously considering” a run against Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) or Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R).
Demings told Politico Thursday, “I’ve received so many calls and texts and emails, and have been stopped when I’m out and about by people who are asking me that very same question. Matter of fact, they think I should run for statewide office and maybe challenge the governor, or challenge Sen. Rubio next year.”
She added, “I’m seriously considering a statewide run. And we’ll see what happens.”
According to those familiar with her thinking, Demings has been disturbed with DeSantis’ style of hard-right governing, specifically when it comes to an anti-protest bill he signed into law.
Demings made headlines recently after she engaged in a shouting match with Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) over what she claims is an effort by the Republicans to use law enforcement officers as “pawns,” as IJR reported.
During a House Judiciary Committee hearing on Tuesday, Demings argued “good police officers” deserve lawmakers’ support.
“It’s interesting to see my colleagues on the other side of the aisle support the police when it is politically convenient to do so,” Demings said. “Law enforcement officers risk their lives every day. They deserve better and the America people…”
When Jordan reportedly shouted over Demings, she replied, “I have the floor, Mr. Jordan! What did I strike a nerve? Law enforcement officers deserve better than to be utilized as pawns. And you and your colleagues should be ashamed of yourselves!”
She later took aim at Jordan, “Mr. Jordan, you don’t know what the heck you’re talking about! You know nothing about what law enforcement … And you’re using them as pawns because it serves your ridiculous political party!”
Demings also spoke out about the conviction of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin in the murder of George Floyd, as IJR reported.
“We are thankful that justice prevailed but we also, I hope, understand that we still have a lot of work to do,” Demings said during Wednesday’s appearance on CNN.
