DeSantis' book 'The Courage to be Free' draws crowds

STORY: Supporters lined up outside a store in Leesburg, Florida, where DeSantis was expected to appear and sign copies of the book.

Florida resident Wylie said he supported DeSantis' views on education. "I have two kids, and I like his focus on bringing power back to parents to decide how they should educate their kids," he said, adding, "I'm a huge fan."

DeSantis is expected to launch a presidential bid after Florida's legislative session ends this spring. He has positioned himself as a leader in the Republican war against the "woke" agenda many conservatives believe liberals are trying to push on public education across the country.

Protesters also gathered nearby, holding placards that read 'Teach the Truth' and 'Ban Guns Not Books'.