Gov. Ron DeSantis is replacing his campaign manager as he continues to retool a struggling presidential campaign that trails far behind former President Donald Trump in the polls.
James Uthmeier, who has served as chief of staff in the governor’s office, is taking over as campaign manager from Generra Peck, according to the DeSantis’ campaign. Peck is staying with the campaign as chief strategist.
The shakeup, which was first reported by The Messenger, is the latest in a series of campaign overhauls. DeSantis has cut staff twice to rein in spending that was rapidly depleting the campaign account.
Peck led DeSantis’ reelection campaign to a dominating win last year by 19 percentage points, but has come under fire as the governor slides in the polls. Just 15% of GOP primary voters back DeSantis in the Real Clear Politics average of national polls, down from 31% in late March.
Uthmeier is considered a close and trusted adviser of the governor but doesn’t have campaign experience.
“James Uthmeier has been one of Governor DeSantis’ top advisors for years and he is needed where it matters most: working hand in hand with Generra Peck and the rest of the team to put the governor in the best possible position to win this primary and defeat Joe Biden,” said DeSantis Communications director Andrew Romeo.
This is a breaking story. Check back for updates.
