Byron Donalds Kicks Off Florida Governor Campaign with Trump’s Backing
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The political landscape in Florida is shaping up for the 2026 governor’s race as U.S. Representative Byron Donalds officially launches his campaign. The rally took place Friday evening at the Sugarshack, a prominent live music venue and restaurant located in Bonita Springs, the congressman’s hometown.
Campaign Launch and Support
Donalds, who is 46 years old and has been a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, announced his candidacy for the governor’s position just one month ago, aiming to succeed Ron DeSantis, whose term is nearing its completion. The event marked an important milestone in Donalds’ campaign strategy as he seeks to solidify his position within the Republican Party.
Endorsement Dynamics and Republican Field
As of now, Donalds faces no significant contenders in the Republican primary, although the former governor has hinted at the possibility of his wife, Casey DeSantis, entering the race to carry on his legacy. The DeSantis couple has been active in South Florida recently, including visits with Trump and participating in a golf outing at the Trump International Golf Course earlier this month.
In the wake of his campaign launch, one of Donalds’ primary objectives is to earn endorsements from key Florida legislators and members of the state congressional delegation, many of whom are aligned with the outgoing governor. Securing Trump’s endorsement gives Donalds a notable advantage, as the former president’s support has historically proven pivotal in electoral success for Republican candidates, exemplified by DeSantis’s 2018 victory.
Potential Republican Challengers
While Donalds appears to have a strong foothold at this early stage, the possibility of other candidates entering the race remains. Potential figures include former U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz, who has expressed interest in the governor’s seat, and Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, who has publicly clashed with DeSantis over issues such as immigration policy.
Byron Donalds’ Background
Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Donalds currently resides in Naples, Florida, with his wife and three sons. After winning a seat in the U.S. House in 2020, he quickly became a prominent member of the conservative Tea Party caucus and has garnered respect among his Republican colleagues. Additionally, he was considered for Trump’s vice presidential pick during the previous election cycle.
As the race continues to evolve, the Florida political scene will keep a close eye on Donalds and any potential challengers in this high-stakes battle for the governor’s mansion.