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Yes, I did see it. I thought a straightforward answer to a simple question would have been more effective and reflect better on DeSantis than ‘Are you Blind? Are you Blind?’ If he’s trying to be Trump, it isn’t working.

The thing about DeSantis is that there is often a sort of whiny, sarcastic, snide edge to him; and I don’t trust him to be as much about the US as he is about himself. I know a lot of people here respect him, but I’m afraid they would wind up disappointed. Being President is a lot bigger than being the Governor of Florida, and what I’ve seen has convinced me that while he may be good in some ways, he will fold and compromise on important issues if it serves his ego and personal goals – or threatens the ‘8 years’ he already claims to need before he’s even attained a nomination.

With Trump, we always knew he wasn’t a politician; and he didn’t need money or power – he had all of that. And when he said something outrageous, it was almost always done in a way that was practically a self-aware caricature of himself, even while clearly expressing strong convictions. Those of us who watched him carefully and supported him knew that it was just his ‘shtick’, but that at heart he was extremely straightforward. We never had to worry what Trump was really thinking.

I simply find that compelling, because I’m tired of slick, lying politicians who promise us everything and then faint when their balls get squeezed a little.

Often, one decides on what is perceived of character, no what people say or even what they do in some situations but probably won’t follow through with in others; and even when the favored character contains flaws.

I just haven’t been convinced of DeSantis’ real character, and a man’s character is the most important thing to me.

I understand where you are coming from, but disagree with your take as to the character of the man. He has been forthright, no question about that. But is that always a positive good? Proverbs would be the best measuring tool we could use outside our own fallible instincts.

2:6 For the Lord gives wisdom;
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
7 He holds success in store for the upright,
he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
8 for he guards the course of the just
and protects the way of his faithful ones.
9 Then you will understand what is right and just
and fair—every good path.
10 For wisdom will enter your heart,
and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.
11 Discretion will protect you,
and understanding will guard you.

And simply based on how they are conducting their campaigns, one hurling silly ad-hominems and another pledging not to do so is but one indication that one of these candidates possess discretion.

I believe there'd be much more in Proverbs which could be used to judge character.

I haven't even mentioned the past histories of the two and fidelity in family affairs. There are distinctions there which could be explored.

"I just haven’t been convinced of DeSantis’ real character, and a man’s character is the most important thing to me."

I still don't really know what Trump believes in regard to religion or abortion. De Santis does seem a bit stiff and sometimes comes across as insincere, but I can't pretend that President Trump doesn't play the part of conservative because it's his job. I don't think he is comfortable with the religious aspect of the conservative movement, but I think he knows how important it is both as a politician and a leader.