Florida's political landscape is abuzz with speculation as Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., a staunch ally of President-elect Trump, intensifies his indications of a potential gubernatorial bid in 2026.
The race is set to determine the successor of the term-limited Republican Governor, Ron DeSantis.
According to Fox News, Donalds has been communicating his intentions to run for governor to potential donors and key figures in Florida's political sphere. These discussions were particularly prevalent during the Florida GOP's annual meeting in Orlando last weekend. "Hes serious," a source privy to the matter disclosed to Fox News.
In a move that further fuels the speculation, Donalds recently engaged the services of Tony Fabrizio's research firm. Fabrizio is a renowned Republican pollster who played a significant role in Trump's 2016 and 2024 presidential campaigns.
Donalds, a conservative former state lawmaker, has been serving parts of southwest Florida's 19th District in Congress for four years. His contemplation of a gubernatorial bid has been ongoing for several months. "Ive thought about it. I dont really rule anything out," Donalds admitted in a Fox News Digital interview last spring.
The congressman, who was a prominent surrogate for Trump on the campaign trail last year, was interviewed shortly after Trump hinted at a potential Donalds' gubernatorial run during a private fundraiser in New York City. "Its really cool that people back home in Florida consider me to be able to be the states next governor. Its really an honor," Donalds expressed, emphasizing his focus on his current role.
However, Donalds is not the only prominent Florida Republican believed to be eyeing the governor's seat. State Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, former president of the state Senate, is also thought to be considering a run. Former Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., Trump's initial pick for attorney general in his second administration, has also expressed interest.
Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody was also speculated to be considering a run, but Governor DeSantis recently appointed her to succeed Sen. Marco Rubio, Trump's nominee for secretary of state. Florida's chief financial officer, Jimmy Patronis, another potential candidate, is currently the front-runner in the special congressional election to fill Gaetz's seat.
Tony Fabrizio opined that should Moody decide to run for governor, Donalds would be the clear favorite over Simpson, who is favored by the Tallahassee establishment. Fabrizio further questioned the wisdom of the Tallahassee establishment, citing their previous losses in 2010 against Rick Scott and in 2018 against Ron DeSantis.
Florida, once a fiercely contested general election battleground state, has now firmly turned red. The upcoming gubernatorial race may hinge on the endorsement of Trump, who has significant influence in his adopted home state and across the country. However, an endorsement from Governor DeSantis could also significantly sway the race. The political chessboard is set, and Florida awaits the next move.
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