Florida Governor Ron DeSantis responded to California Governor Gavin Newsom's debate challenge with a touch of mockery, highlighting California's struggles under Newsom's leadership and urging him to enter the 2024 presidential race directly against Joe Biden.

During a press conference in Fort Pierce, Florida, DeSantis pointed to the significant issues facing California, citing examples like San Francisco and Los Angeles, and the population decline experienced since Newsom took office. He emphasized the historical significance of this exodus, noting that California had consistently grown in population until Newsom's governorship.

DeSantis suggested that people are leaving California not for better weather, but because of poor governance. He then questioned Newsom's "fixation" on Florida, attributing it to the state's successes. He challenged Newsom to stop hinting at a presidential run and formally declare his candidacy against Biden.

DeSantis' comments followed Newsom's acceptance of a debate challenge during an interview with Sean Hannity. Newsom not only agreed to a two-hour debate but proposed extending it to three hours. He also expressed confidence in Biden's cognitive abilities.

Despite previously supporting Biden's reelection and even fundraising for him, Newsom has continued to elevate his national profile, sparking speculation about his future presidential ambitions. He established a political action committee to support Democrats in Republican-leaning states and has advocated for a constitutional amendment on gun control.

Newsom's actions contrast with a Quinnipiac University poll showing that a majority of California voters, including Democrats, do not want him to run for president in the next election.