President Trump Donald John TrumpBiden on Trump's refusal to commit to peaceful transfer of power: 'What country are we in?' Romney: 'Unthinkable and unacceptable' to not commit to peaceful transition of power Two Louisville police officers shot amid Breonna Taylor grand jury protests MORE praised Rep. Ron DeSantis Ron DeSantisFlorida attorney general scrutinizing Bloomberg paying fines for felons to vote Trump may meet with potential Supreme Court pick in Miami Florida governor unveils legislation targeting protesters in 'violent or disorderly' demonstrations MORE (R-Fla.) on Friday, saying he would make a "great" governor of Florida.

"Congressman Ron DeSantis is a brilliant young leader, Yale and then Harvard Law, who would make a GREAT Governor of Florida. He loves our Country and is a true FIGHTER!" Trump tweeted.

Congressman Ron DeSantis is a brilliant young leader, Yale and then Harvard Law, who would make a GREAT Governor of Florida. He loves our Country and is a true FIGHTER! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 22, 2017

DeSantis, who chairs a national security panel of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, appeared on Fox News mid-flight on Air Force One as Trump flew to Palm Beach, Fla., for the holiday weekend.

ADVERTISEMENT

DeSantis has not formally entered the Florida gubernatorial race, though he is expected to announce a 2018 bid to succeed Gov. Rick Scott (R), who is term limited.

DeSantis was a vocal ally for Trump during his 2016 presidential run and has been visible with Trump this year, most recently appearing with him at a rally earlier this month in Pensacola, Fla.

– Jordan Fabian contributed