Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to leave office in January 2027 after two terms

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is set to leave office in January 2027 after completing two terms, according to FOX 35 Orlando. He is unable to run for a third term due to term limits.

The source mentions Byron Donald as the successor, but this information is unclear and unverified; no confirmed governor-elect has been identified in the sources.

Separately, sources told CBS News that DeSantis is being considered for a federal defense role after his governorship ends. He is floated as a potential replacement for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, with the possibility of Senate confirmation during the lame-duck period.

President Trump expressed confidence in Hegseth's performance, stating, 'No, I think he’s doing a very good job.'

The gubernatorial transition will occur in early 2027.