If what you say is true, then who's nominated for pres doesn't matter and energy and money should be mostly applied at the state level. That sounds like a losing strategy, considering the political momentum of high population areas. Personally, I'd opt for a top-down, bottoms-up, sideways-in combination, but I am probably not as politically astutue as you are.
desantis is currently running for reelection for florida governor...
the election is less than 6 months away...
he has never announced any intention of running for president in 2024...