
U.S. Representative Byron Donalds has officially entered the 2026 race for Florida governor, immediately establishing himself as a frontrunner in the Republican primary with the coveted endorsement of President Donald Trump. His campaign centers on a platform of continuity, promising to safeguard the conservative policies of current Governor Ron DeSantis while simultaneously pledging to elevate Florida “to a whole new level.” Donalds’ bid also carries historic weight, as a victory would make him the state’s first Black governor, underscoring the enduring influence of the MAGA movement in Florida’s political landscape.
Story Highlights
- Byron Donalds enters Florida governor race with Trump’s endorsement.
- Donalds vows to continue DeSantis’ policies while elevating the state’s status.
- The race could see Donalds become Florida’s first Black governor.
- Trump’s influence remains strong in Florida’s GOP landscape.
Byron Donalds: A New Face in Florida’s Gubernatorial Race
Byron Donalds, a U.S. Representative from Florida, has announced his bid to become the next governor of Florida in the 2026 election. With the endorsement of President Donald Trump, Donalds has positioned himself as the frontrunner in the Republican primary. His campaign is centered around continuing the policies of the current governor, Ron DeSantis, while promising to elevate Florida “to a whole new level.”
Donalds, a Brooklyn native who relocated to Florida, has quickly risen through political ranks, having served in the Florida House before securing his current position in the U.S. House of Representatives. His financial expertise and strong ties to the MAGA movement have bolstered his political career, making him a formidable candidate in the upcoming election.
MAGA CHAMPION: Trump-backed Rep. Byron Donalds vows to maintain DeSantis' trajectory and take Florida to 'a whole new level' as he dominates GOP primary field. https://t.co/wQTqXX7vXe
— Fox News Politics (@foxnewspolitics) December 22, 2025
Trump’s Endorsement and Its Impact
Trump’s endorsement of Byron Donalds has been a game-changer in the Florida gubernatorial race. The president’s backing provides Donalds with significant political capital and access to a wide base of Republican voters. Trump’s “RUN, BYRON, RUN!” social media post signaled a strong support that sets Donalds apart from other potential candidates.
Despite some lingering tensions from a strained relationship between Trump and DeSantis, Donalds’ campaign emphasizes unity and continuity. He aims to maintain the trajectory set by DeSantis while addressing key state issues like affordability, insurance costs, and Everglades preservation.
A Historic Milestone and Future Implications
If elected, Donalds would become Florida’s first Black governor, a historic achievement that aligns with his campaign’s broader vision of progress and representation. His candidacy also highlights the enduring influence of Trump in Florida, as many Republican candidates continue to seek his endorsement to secure their positions.
The implications of Donalds’ potential governorship extend beyond Florida, as it may serve as a model for GOP strategies in other states. With a focus on conservative values and economic growth, Donalds promises to fortify Florida’s status as a bastion of Republican ideals.
As the race progresses, all eyes will be on Donalds to see how he navigates the challenges ahead and whether he can deliver on his pledge to take Florida to a “whole new level” while safeguarding the state’s conservative legacy.
Watch the report: Trump-backed Rep. Byron Donalds announces run for Florida governor
Sources:
- Trump-backed Donalds vows to maintain DeSantis ‘trajectory,’ take Florida to ‘whole new level’
- WUSF: Byron Donalds Endorsed by Trump, Running for Florida Governor
- Fox News: Trump-Backed Donalds Vows to Maintain DeSantis’ Trajectory
- Politico: Byron Donalds Secures Congressional Endorsement for Florida Governor
- Florida Politics: Byron Donalds Campaign Boasts $40M, Massive Polling Leads

















