Though the two remain in regular contact, Trump has become increasingly irritated at DeSantis’ refusal to publicly dismiss a 2024 bid of his own if the former President himself decides to run. Two people close to the situation said DeSantis has privately assured Trump and others that he has no intention of challenging him in a GOP presidential primary, but they noted that Trump won’t be fully satisfied until the governor says so publicly.

“I don’t think Trump appreciates the conundrum DeSantis is in. He wants him to say, ‘I won’t run,’ but DeSantis isn’t going to weigh in like that,” said a former Trump aide, who suggested that DeSantis’ current approach was politically savvy given his interest in securing another term as governor.

“It’s a very smart view. Until you get reelected, don’t start to have a conversation about 2024. If you’re trying to ask people for your vote and you’re leaning into presidential speculation, it makes it a lot harder,” the aide said.