Trump Backs Congressman Byron Donalds for Potential Florida Gubernatorial Run

President Donald Trump has made his support clear for Congressman Byron Donalds, expressing enthusiasm for a potential run in the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial race to succeed Florida’s term-limited Governor Ron DeSantis.

In a recent social media post, Trump shared, “I am hearing that Highly Respected Congressman Byron Donalds is considering running for Governor of Florida, a State that I love, and WON BIG in 2016, 2020, and 2024.” As a resident of Florida, Trump emphasized the importance of this election.

Trump described Donalds, a loyal ally and friend, as someone who would be “a truly Great and Powerful Governor for Florida.” He concluded his message with a call to action, urging, “RUN, BYRON, RUN!”

Donalds Eyes Gubernatorial Bid

Donalds, a conservative leader who has served as the representative for Florida’s 19th District in Congress since 2019, has been contemplating a gubernatorial campaign for nearly a year. In a Fox News Digital interview conducted last spring, he acknowledged, “I’ve thought about it. I don’t really rule anything out” when asked if he might make a run for governor.

Recent sources confirm that Donalds has been communicating his ambitions to potential donors and significant figures within Florida’s political scene, indicating his serious intentions regarding a gubernatorial bid.

Key Moves Indicate a Campaign

In a further sign of his potential candidacy, Donalds hired the prominent Republican pollster Tony Fabrizio’s research firm. Fabrizio has a notable record, having served as a top pollster for Trump’s successful campaigns in 2016 and 2024. This strategic move highlights Donalds’ commitment to a well-founded campaign.

According to insiders, Donalds is actively working behind the scenes to advance his gubernatorial campaign. Reports indicate that he is eagerly seeking Trump’s endorsement to eliminate competition from other GOP candidates.

Rival Candidates on the Horizon

A range of potential candidates could challenge Donalds for the Republican nomination. One significant contender is Wilton Simpson, the current state Agriculture Commissioner and former Senate president, who is also mulling a run for governor.

Additionally, speculation has arisen around Florida’s First Lady, Casey DeSantis. Recent polls suggest she would be a formidable candidate in the race to succeed her husband, drawing significant attention to her possible entry.

Former Congressman Matt Gaetz, who previously considered running for governor but has been relatively quiet lately, remains another name in the mix. His run would come after withdrawing from a previous potential appointment to the attorney general position in Trump’s administration amid controversies.

Donald’s Vision for Florida

Dan Eberhart, a prominent Florida Republican donor and CEO of an oil drilling company, spoke highly of Donalds, stating that he would bring “a fresh conservative vision for Florida’s future that will be hard to beat” if he chooses to run. Eberhart’s confidence in Donalds reflects the growing anticipation surrounding his candidacy.

Trump has continued to publicly support Donalds, with this being the second occasion in a week that he highlighted the congressman’s potential run. Earlier, he shared a poll indicating Donalds leading in a hypothetical match-up for the gubernatorial race, reinforcing the momentum behind Donalds as a candidate.

The Significance of Trump’s Endorsement

Trump’s backing is particularly pivotal given Florida’s political landscape, which has shifted to a solid Republican stronghold. His endorsement in this race could significantly influence the decision-making of voters and party officials. In the past, he has hinted that if Donalds enters the race, he would face “many friends.”

Reflecting on the potential for the future, Donalds expressed gratitude regarding the excitement surrounding his political journey. “It’s honestly surreal thinking about it because I’m 45 and my journey through politics has been a really fruitful one,” he remarked after Trump’s comments.

A New Chapter for Florida Politics

The impending gubernatorial race in Florida, especially with Trump’s endorsement at play, sets the stage for a dynamic political environment. As the electoral process inches closer, all eyes will be on how these unfolding developments shape the candidacies of key figures in the Republican Party.

With a mix of established politicians and fresh faces within the political arena, the competition promises to be fierce. The evolving dynamics, influenced by candidates’ strategies and voters’ sentiments, may determine the future trajectory of Florida’s governance.