According to a report by Raw Story on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, the House Freedom Caucus renowned for backing Donald Trump has chosen Rep. Bob Good as its new chairman suggesting a possible change in allegiance
Good, a Virginia Republican has openly endorsed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over Trump, citing DeSantis track record of effective leadership.
The decision to appoint Good as the head of the hard-right caucus is noteworthy, given its historical alignment with Trump and his agenda.
The move comes as the caucus is undergoing a leadership change with Good replacing Scott Perry from Pennsylvania.
Good’s endorsement of DeSantis was not a casual one; he praised the Florida governor for his proactive approach to governance, particularly in addressing challenging issues.
“Governor Ron DeSantis has shown through action as Florida’s chief executive that confronting hard challengers delivers effective results for every man, woman, and child,” said Good in May when he publicly supported DeSantis.
However, Good’s departure from the traditional Trump endorsement didn’t stop at praise for DeSantis.
In a recorded video published by The Tennessee Star, Good was heard expressing concerns about Trump’s viability as a candidate due to “baggage” resulting from criminal indictments.
This candid assessment is a departure from the typical unwavering support Trump receives from the Freedom Caucus.
The intrigue deepens as Good runs unopposed for the chairmanship, suggesting a general endorsement of his leadership within the caucus.
His recommendation by the caucus board and his upcoming role as chairman reflect a potential divergence from the group’s traditional alignment with Trump.
The video footage further unveils Good’s bold stance on Trump, stating “He (Trump) might be the only person that can lose to Joe Biden if he’s the nominee, and I don’t criticize him.”
While Good’s election as the head of the Freedom Caucus may not signal an immediate break with Trump, it suggests a shift within the group.
The decision to appoint someone who openly supports DeSantis, coupled with comments questioning Trump’s electoral strength, hints at a growing divergence of opinions within the caucus.
The departure of Scott Perry, a key figure in Trump’s post-election efforts, adds to the intrigue surrounding the caucus’s direction.
“Bob Good’s selection reflects a continued independent streak with the Freedom Caucus,” said Thomas Gift, the founding director of the Centre on U.S. Politics at University College London.
“Although the group as a whole is still mightily pro-Trump, its members don’t kowtow to his every move, and some have even radicalized beyond the former president.”
