Spiro Kiousis, University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications executive associate dean, was quoted in “LGBTQ+ Republicans to DeSantis: The ‘Old Playbook’ Doesn’t Work Anymore” published in the Tampa Bay Times on July 11.

The article focuses on backlash from a video shared by Gov. Ron DeSantis’ presidential campaign that is homophobic. It represents a return to the “old playbook,” a reference to Republican Party platforms, especially in the early 2000s, that stood firmly against gay rights and those fighting for same-sex marriage.

The purpose of the video is to contrast former President Trump’s support of LGBTQ+ rights with DeSantis’ restrictive policies in Florida.

According to Kiousis, “It remains to be seen if this kind of messaging will be effective, either in public opinion polling or in DeSantis’ fundraising efforts. I don’t want to say it’s a Hail Mary, but it’s certainly a more aggressive move right now.”

Posted: July 11, 2023
Category: College News
Tagged as: 2024 Presidential Election, Spiro Kiousis, Tampa Bay Times