In a pivotal move shaping Florida’s political future, Republican U.S. Representative Byron Donalds has officially declared his candidacy for the 2026 gubernatorial race, bolstered by a decisive endorsement from President Donald Trump. This development sets the stage for a dynamic contest to determine Governor Ron DeSantis’s successor, as he approaches the end of his term due to constitutional limits.
Trump’s Endorsement: A Defining Moment
On February 20, 2025, President Trump utilized his social media platform, Truth Social, to endorse Donalds enthusiastically. He characterized the congressman as a “TOTAL WINNER” and encouraged him to pursue the governorship, stating, “Byron Donalds would be a truly Great and Powerful Governor for Florida and, should he decide to run, will have my Complete and Total Endorsement. RUN, BYRON, RUN!”
This endorsement is anticipated to significantly influence the Republican primary, given Trump’s substantial sway within the party, particularly in Florida. Political analysts suggest that Trump’s backing could deter other potential candidates, positioning Donalds as a leading contender.
Byron Donalds: From Brooklyn Roots to Florida Leadership
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Byron Donalds relocated to Florida to attend Florida State University, where he earned a degree in finance and marketing. Before entering politics, he built a career as a financial adviser, providing him with a solid foundation in economic and fiscal matters.
Donalds’s political journey commenced in the Florida House of Representatives, where he served from 2016 to 2020. During this period, he emerged as a staunch advocate for school choice and educational reform, promoting policies that expanded opportunities for students and families. In 2020, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Florida’s 19th congressional district, which includes the Naples and Fort Myers regions (AP News).
A Vision for Florida’s Future
In his announcement on February 25, 2025, during an interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity, Donalds expressed his commitment to building upon Florida’s achievements. He remarked, “We have a great governor. Ron DeSantis has done a tremendous job for our state. But now the job is to keep Florida leading.”
Donalds outlined several key priorities for his gubernatorial campaign:
- Economic Growth: Aiming to reduce insurance costs for residents and foster a business-friendly environment to attract new industries.
- Educational Reform: Continuing his strong support for school choice and policies that empower parents in their children’s education.
- Environmental Conservation: Emphasizing the preservation of Florida’s natural resources, including the Everglades, to ensure their protection for future generations.
Potential Contenders and Political Dynamics
While Donalds’s candidacy gains momentum, speculation surrounds other potential contenders for the Republican nomination. Notably, Casey DeSantis, Florida’s First Lady, has been rumored to consider a gubernatorial bid. Governor DeSantis has hinted at this possibility, suggesting that she would continue his conservative policy legacy. However, no official announcement has been made regarding her intentions.
Another potential candidate is former U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz, who has expressed interest in the governorship. The entry of multiple high-profile candidates could lead to a competitive primary, testing alliances and political strategies within the Florida GOP.
The Trump-DeSantis Dynamic
President Trump’s endorsement of Donalds introduces an intriguing dynamic, especially considering the previously close relationship between Trump and Governor DeSantis. In 2018, Trump’s support was instrumental in DeSantis’s gubernatorial victory.
However, tensions have since emerged, particularly after DeSantis’s unsuccessful bid against Trump in the 2024 Republican presidential primaries. The current endorsement may further strain their relationship and influence the broader political landscape in Florida.
Implications for Florida’s Political Landscape
Donalds’s candidacy, reinforced by Trump’s endorsement, is poised to reshape Florida’s political environment. If elected, Donalds would make history as the state’s first African American governor, reflecting the evolving diversity within the Republican Party. His campaign will likely focus on continuing and enhancing the conservative policies established during DeSantis’s tenure, appealing to the party’s base while addressing pressing state issues.
As the 2026 election approaches, Floridians can anticipate a dynamic and potentially contentious race, with candidates vying to define the state’s direction in the post-DeSantis era. The interplay of endorsements, political alliances, and policy priorities will be critical in shaping the outcome of this pivotal election.
For a visual overview of this announcement, you can watch the following video:
Rep. Byron Donalds, backed by Trump, says he’s running for Florida governor
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