Rep. Byron Donalds, Backed by Trump, Says He’s Running for Florida Governor
Donalds Enters the 2026 Race to Succeed Governor Ron DeSantis
Republican U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds announced Tuesday that he’s entering the 2026 race to succeed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is ineligible to seek another term after eight years in office.
Trump’s Endorsement
Donalds enters the race with President Donald Trump’s endorsement. Donalds has been a frequent Trump surrogate and was on the short list to be his vice presidential running mate last year.
A Strong Conservative Background
Donalds praised the governor Tuesday, saying he had done a “tremendous job for our state.” Speaking to Sean Hannity on Fox News, Donalds did not directly address the speculation about a Casey DeSantis run but noted his Trump endorsement and his record in elected office.
Priorities
He would prioritize lowering insurance costs, promoting the cryptocurrency industry, and preserving the waterways of the Everglades, the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S.
A Background in Public Service
The 46-year-old Donalds, who lives in Naples in southwest Florida, was born and raised in Brooklyn. He graduated from Florida State University.
He was working as a financial adviser when then-Gov. Rick Scott appointed him to the board of trustees at a state college, cementing his rise in the state GOP.
A Career in Politics
He entered the Florida House in 2016, won a seat in the U.S. House in 2020, and has been on the short list for multiple opportunities ever since, including being nominated in January 2023 by the far-right wing of as a candidate for House speaker.
Other Potential Candidates
Other potential GOP candidates include former U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz, who said in January that he was considering a run, and Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, though he recently fought with DeSantis over immigration policies.
A Trump-Backed Candidate
However, Trump’s endorsement may clear the way for Donalds given his dominance in Republican politics, particularly in his adopted home state. Trump established residency in Palm Beach during his first term.
“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,” the president posted Thursday on his social media site. “RUN, BYRON, RUN!”
Conclusion
Donalds’ entry into the race sets the stage for an exciting and competitive election season in Florida. With Trump’s endorsement and his own strong conservative credentials, Donalds is well-positioned to make a strong bid for the governor’s office.
FAQs
Q: Why is Gov. DeSantis ineligible to run for re-election?
A: DeSantis is ineligible to run for re-election due to term limits and failed in his bid for the presidency against Trump last year.
Q: Who else is running for the Republican nomination?
A: Other potential GOP candidates include former U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz and Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson.
Q: What are Donalds’ priorities as governor?
A: Donalds has prioritized lowering insurance costs, promoting the cryptocurrency industry, and preserving the waterways of the Everglades.
Q: What is Donalds’ background?
A: Donalds is a 46-year-old Republican from Naples, Florida, born and raised in Brooklyn. He graduated from Florida State University and has a background in finance and politics.
