DeSantis stays off path of political controversies in hurricane aftermath

Rightwing governor known for aggressive, culture-war brand of populism gives softer demeanor after storm, destroying opponents' hopes of toppling him

If such a thing can be said following a devastating hurricane that took the lives of more than 100 people, caused tens of billions of dollars in damage, and changed the face of south-west Florida forever, Ron DeSantis has had a good storm.

The rightwing Republican governor has become a near ever-present face on national television during the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, largely steering clear of the political controversies that have plagued him in recent weeks as he sought to bring a calm and reassuring face to a fast-moving tragedy.