Phil noted them below. I’ll add a couple of things:
- Whether it happens or not, the endorsements set up the possibility of a new “Trump threw everything at him, and still didn’t kill DeSantis” narrative to take hold as the governor prepares to announce.
- Importantly, they show that DeSantis is capable of doing the interpersonal work to win endorsements, which was in doubt after the debacle of the Trump endorsements from members of the Florida congressional delegation.
- They are a nice counterpoint to the Trump town hall, showing that there’s a major contingent in the party that cares about something besides entertainment value.
- They’re obviously a sign of strength in all-important Iowa. If Trump wins there, the fight for the nomination might be all but over. If he loses, at the very least it’s going to be a long fight.