DeSantis, a proven leader for America’s revival

OPINION:

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis set himself apart on the debate stage as a confident, consistent, and proven leader who is ready to be president of the United States and reverse our nation’s decline.

As a former Trump-appointee, I have great respect for what the former president was able to accomplish. But the reality is: He didn’t bother to show up for the debate. Our party deserves a candidate who will show up and put in the work. We need a candidate who can beat President Biden, serve for two-terms, and deliver for the American people.

Three points stood out to me about Ron’s debate performance.

First, as the only veteran on stage, Ron showed he is uniquely prepared to be Commander-in-Chief on Day One. No other candidate has served, so Ron understands the importance of rebuilding our military and returning America to a position of strength on the global stage.

Many Americans have not yet heard the story of his service, so it was important for those who watched the debate to learn how he volunteered to join the Navy after graduating from Harvard Law School, deployed in support of SEAL Team One as a JAG officer in Iraq and was awarded the Bronze Star. As a military officer myself, this record of service is a trait I’m looking for in our next president.

Second, Ron showed his focus and discipline. He has been under relentless attack since announcing his candidacy because he has the strongest proven track record. Leading up to the debate, Mr Trump and the Trump campaign obsessively targeted him.

But Ron is used to taking the arrows. Who could forget the corporate media uniting against Mr. DeSantis when he stood up for his citizens and kept Florida open and free during COVID-19? He never got distracted from his mission to share his forward-looking vision for our nation. Americans got a preview of President DeSantis: Focused, disciplined, and positive.

Third, I’ve known Ron DeSantis for a long time. Before Mr. Trump appointed me as the 13th administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Ron and I served in Congress together and were members of the House Freedom Caucus. Ron was a founding member of the group whose mission was to give a voice to countless Americans who feel that Washington does not represent them.

I’ve seen firsthand what Ron thinks about the way DC operates, and I know how he would break the Swamp as president. Let me tell you, when Ron says he’s going to do something, he gets it done. He is a man of his word, a dedicated father and husband, and a patriot who takes his oath of office seriously.

Ron has always been anti-establishment because he’s never been in it for himself. That’s why the media, the Democrats, and every other candidate attack him. When he is elected president of the United States, they will lose their power and their status, and the American people will win with a leader who puts them first.

Ron DeSantis showed the nation last week that he is the only proven leader for our nation’s revival.

• Mr. Bridenstine is a former Oklahoma Congressman and former administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration under President Trump.