In a notable political development, Byron Donalds, a Republican U.S. Representative, declared his candidacy for the 2026 Florida gubernatorial race on Tuesday. He aims to succeed Governor Ron DeSantis, who will be stepping down after serving the maximum of two terms. Donalds enters the race with a strong backing, having received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, with whom he has closely aligned himself in the past, even being considered for the vice-presidential slot.
Current Governor Ron DeSantis, having recently failed in a presidential bid, has not publicly backed any candidate to take over from him when his term limits end. Ahead of Donalds’ announcement, DeSantis suggested that his wife, Casey DeSantis, has the potential to make a good governor, while subtly noting that Donalds was not involved in his conservative achievements. However, Donalds commended DeSantis’ achievements in Florida when speaking on Fox News’ Sean Hannity show. He chose not to address speculations about Casey running but highlighted his commitment, with Trump’s endorsement, to conservative causes.
Donald’s agenda includes a focus on reducing insurance costs, supporting the cryptocurrency sector, and protecting the Everglades’ natural environment. Originally from Brooklyn and now residing in Naples, Florida, the 46-year-old Donalds completed his education at Florida State University. His political journey began when ex-Gov. Rick Scott appointed him to a state college board as a financial adviser, subsequently entering the Florida House in 2016. In 2020, he secured a seat in the U.S. House and has been a significant figure in GOP opportunities, even being nominated for House Speaker in January 2023.
Following Trump’s endorsement, Donalds expressed anticipation for a forthcoming announcement and highlighted his dedication to partnering with Trump to further enhance Florida’s prosperity. At the Conservative Political Action Conference in February 2021, he mentioned a conversation with Trump about his potential candidacy. “Florida won’t cease its leadership role,” Donalds proclaimed, underscoring plans to enhance the state’s strengths and act as a model for the nation.
Beyond Casey DeSantis, other possible Republican contenders for the governorship include Matt Gaetz and Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, although his rapport with DeSantis has been strained over policy disagreements. Nevertheless, Donald Trump’s endorsement could significantly bolster Donalds’ campaign, given Trump’s influence in Florida’s Republican circles and his established residency in the state.
Trump’s strong support was reiterated when he posted on social media, praising Donalds as an ideal candidate and encouraging his run for governor. Should Donalds become governor, he would make history as the state’s first African American governor. He and his spouse, Erika Donalds, have been pivotal in efforts to reshape public education, channeling more resources into charter and private schools. Erika, a former member of a county school board, currently manages a company overseeing these educational institutions.
