Byron Donalds Announces 2026 Gubernatorial Bid in Florida, Backed by Trump

A New Chapter in Florida Politics

In a move that promises to reshape Florida’s political landscape, U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds announced his candidacy for the 2026 gubernatorial race. This comes as Governor Ron DeSantis, who has served two terms and is ineligible for re-election, steps down after eight years in office. Donalds, a Republican congressman, enters the race with the high-profile endorsement of former President Donald Trump, a significant boost in a state where Trump maintains considerable influence. Known as a staunch ally of the former president, Donalds has been a frequent surrogate for Trump and was even considered as a potential running mate during Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign.

Despite the early endorsement, the race is far from settled. Governor DeSantis, who unsuccessfully challenged Trump for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024, has yet to endorse a successor. Interestingly, DeSantis recently hinted that his wife, Casey DeSantis, could be a strong candidate for the governorship. However, Casey DeSantis has not officially announced her candidacy. Meanwhile, Donalds has showered praise on DeSantis, acknowledging the governor’s contributions to Florida’s conservative agenda while carving out his own path.

Byron Donalds: A Rising Star in Republican Politics

Byron Donalds, a 46-year-old Republican congressman from Naples, Florida, has quickly risen through the ranks of state and national politics. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Donalds moved to Florida and began his political career in 2016 when he was elected to the Florida House of Representatives. In 2020, he won a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he has become a prominent voice for conservative issues. His political ascent was further highlighted in 2023 when he was nominated by the far-right faction of the Republican Party as a candidate for House Speaker.

Donalds’ endorsement by Trump is a testament to his loyalty to the former president and his alignment with Trump’s political ideology. Speaking on Fox News with Sean Hannity, Donalds emphasized his commitment to conservatism and his readiness to lead Florida into a new era. He outlined key priorities for his gubernatorial campaign, including lowering insurance costs, promoting the cryptocurrency industry, and preserving the Everglades, the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.

The Race for Florida’s Governorship: A GOP Showdown

While Donalds has secured Trump’s endorsement, the Republican primary field remains competitive. Other potential candidates include Casey DeSantis, who has gained prominence as a First Lady and advocate for mental health and children’s issues. Additionally, figures like former U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz and Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson are rumored to be considering runs. Simpson, however, recently clashed with DeSantis over immigration policies, which could impact his candidacy.

Despite the crowded field, Trump’s endorsement gives Donalds a significant advantage. Trump’s influence in Florida, where he is now a resident, remains formidable, especially among Republican voters. In a recent social media post, Trump called Donalds a “truly Great and Powerful Governor” and urged him to “RUN, BYRON, RUN!” The former president’s backing could clear a path for Donalds, positioning him as the front-runner in the race.

Byron Donalds: A Trailblazer in Florida Politics

If elected, Byron Donalds would make history as the first African American governor of Florida. His candidacy represents a significant moment for the Republican Party, which has long sought to diversify its leadership. Donalds and his wife, Erika, a former county school board member, have been vocal advocates for education reform, particularly in expanding access to private and charter schools. Erika Donalds currently runs a company that oversees charter schools and a virtual academy, reflecting the couple’s shared commitment to transforming public education.

Byron Donalds’ political journey is a story of resilience and ambition. From his roots in Brooklyn to his rise in Florida politics, he has consistently positioned himself as a fighter for conservative values. His gubernatorial campaign is likely to focus on building on DeSantis’ legacy while charting a new course for the state. Speaking at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) earlier this year, Donalds declared, “Florida is not going to stop leading. We’re going to build off of what we’ve done, and we are going to continue to lead bigger, better, faster, greater, safer, freer.”

The Broader Implications of the 2026 Race

The 2026 gubernatorial race in Florida is not just a local contest; it has national implications. As one of the most politically influential states in the country, Florida has long been a battleground for Democratic and Republican candidates. A Donalds victory could further cement Florida’s status as a Republican stronghold, while a loss might signal shifting political tides.

Moreover, the race highlights the ongoing dynamics within the Republican Party. With Trump’s endorsement, Donalds embodies the Trump-aligned faction of the GOP, which continues to wield significant influence. Meanwhile, the potential candidacy of Casey DeSantis could represent a more traditional conservative wing of the party, creating a fascinating intra-party contest.

As the race unfolds, voters will closely watch how candidates address pressing issues such as economic growth, environmental sustainability, and education reform. Byron Donalds, backed by Trump’s endorsement and his own political experience, appears poised to be a formidable candidate. Whether he can unite the Republican base and appeal to a broader electorate will determine his success in the race to lead Florida.

Conclusion: A New Era for Florida

Byron Donalds’ entry into the 2026 gubernatorial race marks the beginning of a new chapter in Florida politics. With his conservative credentials, Trump’s endorsement, and a clear vision for the state’s future, Donalds is positioned to be a strong contender. However, the race is far from over, and the eventual winner will face the challenge of leading Florida through complex issues while navigating the ever-shifting landscape of American politics. As the race heats up, all eyes will be on Florida to see how this pivotal election unfolds.