Before becoming the First Lady of Florida, Casey DeSantis worked in television, hosting several shows. She co-hosted the golf show "On the Green" and later hosted "The Real Story with Casey DeSantis," a conservative news program on the Florida-based television station WFLX.
While there might be some confusion surrounding the name "Leya DeSantis," it's clear that Casey DeSantis has established herself as a dedicated public servant and a strong advocate for Floridians. As the First Lady of Florida, she continues to prioritize education, healthcare, and community development initiatives.
For a time, she appeared to be a "formidable" candidate. Polls showed she had higher name recognition and favorability among Republican voters than many of her potential rivals. However, the scandal has complicated her prospects. A February 2026 POLITICO article noted that while she has stepped up her media appearances, most insiders expect she will not run, citing the couple's three young children as a major factor in their decision-making. Furthermore, polls taken in early 2026 showed her support among GOP voters languishing in the single digits, while Byron Donalds' campaign has amassed over $46 million. The official deadline to enter the race was June 12, 2026, and as the date approached, the speculation only intensified, with no one close to the first lady willing to completely rule out a bid. leya desantis
She moves like the last light through a cracked window—slow, precise, and somehow inevitable. Names gather around her like stray reflections: a childhood in the shuttered rooms of a coastal town, a father who taught her how to steady a net and a temperament that can hold its breath for entire oceans. Leya speaks in small, important things—a folded map, a jar of salt, the exact tilt of a photograph—and people who listen learn how to read the weather inside her.
: Be aware that searches for her name often return unrelated results for American political figures (such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis) due to the shared surname. Before becoming the First Lady of Florida, Casey
For most of the world, the name first entered the public lexicon in 2019. Standing in the Florida State Capitol, Governor DeSantis was signing an executive order when his then-toddler daughter began fussing. Demonstrating a side of his personality rarely seen in political combat, the Governor lifted Leya onto his lap.
: She is noted for maintaining a consistent level of intensity across various studio collaborations. As the First Lady of Florida, she continues
When she's not busy with official duties or philanthropic endeavors, Leya DeSantis enjoys a range of hobbies and interests. She is an avid reader, particularly fond of Christian non-fiction and historical fiction. Leya also loves spending time outdoors, whether hiking, biking, or simply enjoying a walk on the beach.
Together, they are parents to three children: daughter Madison (born 2016), son Mason (born 2018), and daughter Mamie (born 2020). Mamie made history as the first baby born in the Florida Governor's Mansion in over 50 years. The family is known for their strong conservative values and their frequent public appearances together, often presenting a united front in Ron DeSantis's political campaigns.
Partnering with the Florida Department of Education, Casey launched RISE (Resilience In School Environments). The program trains educators and students to identify mental distress, de-escalate conflicts, and promote emotional well-being. It has been implemented in over 2,000 schools across Florida.
As the wife of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Leya DeSantis has become a prominent figure in American politics. While her husband has been making headlines with his conservative policies and presidential ambitions, Leya has been working behind the scenes to support his career and promote her own passions. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the life and career of Leya DeSantis, exploring her background, her role as Florida's First Lady, and her impact on the Sunshine State.