There have been some creative ads this election cycle, but DeSantis’ “Top Guv” commercial might take the cake.
The ad opens at “Freedom Headquarters (Florida)”, and it opens with the Navy Lt. Commander sporting an aviator jacket.
“Good morning, Ladies and Gentleman this is your governor speaking. Today’s training evolution: Dog fighting. Taking on the corporate media,” DeSantis said. “The rules of engagement are as follows: don’t fire unless fired upon, but when they fire, you fire back with overwhelming force.”
The video then cuts to a clip of him asking “Does it say that in the bill? I’m asking you to tell me what’s in the bill,” to a reporter.
“Number two: Never ever back down from a fight.” Then another press conference clip begins with a reporter saying “If I could complete the question though,” to which DeSantis claps back “So are you gonna give a speech or ask a question?”
From there, the ad shows DeSantis in a fighter jet.
“Number three: Don’t accept their narrative,” was followed by a montage of a few more jaw-dropping exchanges between DeSantis and reporters.
The ad closes out with him saying “Alright Ladies and Gentlemen,” and features a cameo from his son Mason DeSantis who exclaimed, “Let’s turn and burn!”
This ad is a refreshing change from most commercials Republican candidates have put on the airwaves, which stereotypically involve walking around old buildings. The movie “Top Gun” was incredibly popular, and this goes much deeper than just a generic ad touting his accomplishments in office. DeSantis and his team understand that they are cultivating a brand, which is one of the keys to success in major races like his.
The governor is expected to have an easy victory in the Sunshine State come November, but Democrats are choosing their nominee on Tuesday. Although Commissioner of Agriculture Nikki Fried has gone viral numerous times for her campaign, congressman and former Republican Gov. Charlie Crist (who became a Democrat in 2012) is expected to be his opponent.