DeSantis has a very full record on culture war issues, but not much of one on fiscal and economic questions. If he runs against Trump in 2024, will he be tempted to wear the mantle of national conservative?
It would make sense on a variety of levels. First of all, it would obviously set him apart from Trump, who is a completely orthodox GOP proponent of tax cuts and deregulation for business. Second, it would open up a populist avenue of attack that would distinguish him from every possible opponent except Hawley with the reactionary base, which has no inherent love for big business. Finally, there is nothing in his background or personality which suggests that DeSantis is in love with business. By all accounts, he hates chasing campaign contributions; that sort of donor stroking is best left to his wife.
I still doubt he will have the nerve to run against Trump if push comes to shove, and I can’t be sure he would take the next step and antagonize the powers that be in the GOP by preferring workers to capitalists. I have to believe he will give it serious consideration, however. He is making his name by throwing red meat to the base; this would be another way of doing it.