Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) is ramping up efforts to potentially run for Florida governor in 2026, signaling a serious challenge to other GOP contenders.
Representative Byron Donalds , a Republican from Florida, is increasingly vocal about his potential candidacy for Florida governor in 2026. Donalds, a strong supporter of former President Trump, has been engaging with potential donors and Florida political figures, indicating his intention to run for governor. Sources close to Donalds confirm these conversations, with some taking place at the Florida GOP's annual meeting in Orlando last weekend.
Donalds' seriousness about the bid is further evidenced by his recent hiring of prominent Republican pollster Tony Fabrizio's research firm. Fabrizio played a key role in Trump's successful 2016 and 2024 presidential campaigns. Donalds has been considering a gubernatorial run for months, previously stating in a Fox News Digital interview that he doesn't rule anything out.Additionally, Trump himself hinted at Donalds' potential candidacy during a closed-door fundraiser in New York City last year, suggesting that if Donalds ran, he'd have 'many friends in the race.' Other notable Florida Republicans considering gubernatorial bids include State Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and former Representative Matt Gaetz. However, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, who was also considered a contender, was appointed by Governor DeSantis to replace Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State. Meanwhile, Florida's Chief Financial Officer, Jimmy Patronis, is the frontrunner in the special congressional election to fill Gaetz's seat. This tight race for governor in Florida, with its firmly red political landscape, could hinge on endorsements from both Trump and DeSantis.
Byron Donalds Florida Governor 2026 Election Republican Party Tony Fabrizio Ron Desantis Matt Gaetz Wilton Simpson Donald Trump
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