Jimmy Kimmel uncovers the Ron DeSantis boot lift mystery
By Matt Moore
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ run for the White House continues to come up short. Now, the Republican is facing increased scrutiny about his boots and whether he wears lifts to appear taller. Jimmy Kimmel‘s monologue took a deep dive into the mystery and found it’s anything but a tall tale.
Eagle-eyed observers have noticed the unusual appearance of Ron DeSantis’ cowboy boots out on the campaign trail. The evidence suggests that the Florida Republican is doing whatever he can to increase his height.
Perhaps DeSantis puts a lot of stock into the coincidence that taller candidates typically perform better in elections. Then there’s the ever-present threat of getting mocked by Donald Trump, who has a history of teasing opponents for their appearance.
Jimmy Kimmel also isn’t afraid to tease a politician about the way they look. However, Ron DeSantis’ political views have provided enough material for Kimmel and the other late-night hosts. But Kimmel couldn’t ignore the story of Ron DeSantis’ boot lifts.
Jimmy Kimmel amused by Ron DeSantis’ boot story
On Tuesday night, Jimmy Kimmel’s monologue discussed a POLITICO story about Ron DeSantis and his boot lifts. The outlet spoke with boot makers who all agreed that DeSantis was enhancing his height with a combination of lifts and alterations to his footwear.
Kimmel sarcastically agreed that the president’s height is an important factor. He joked that he’s been advocating for “President Kareem” for years, suggesting that NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabar has what it takes to run the country.
The late-night show then included a clip of Donald Trump, Jr. getting in on the action. DJTJ, as Kimmel calls him, teased DeSantis over the boots and advised that he own his height rather than be insecure. A clearly amused Kimmel agreed, dryly saying “take it from a guy who’s not insecure at all.”
Kimmel’s monologue wrapped up the story with a callback to one of Ron DeSantis’ most controversial beliefs. “But it does seem like Ron DeSantis may be wearing heels,” Kimmel said. “I tell you what, throw on a tube of lipstick and suddenly it’s illegal to teach kids in Florida public schools about their own governor.”
Ron DeSantis’ next public appearance could give an indication if the boot lift story got to his head. Regardless, Jimmy Kimmel will continue to find ways to make the presidential hopeful feel insecure.