The race to succeed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in 2026 just got a major shake-up. Reports confirm that Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) is gearing up for a gubernatorial run, setting the stage for what could be one of the most closely watched Republican primaries in the country. With DeSantis term-limited and leaving behind a booming economy driven by low taxes and deregulation, the competition to carry on his legacy is heating up.
Donalds, a staunch ally of President-elect Trump, has begun laying the groundwork for his campaign. Sources reveal that during a recent Florida Republican Party meeting in Orlando, Donalds privately shared his intentions to run with donors and party insiders. His calendar has since been packed with meetings in Tallahassee with key lobbyists and financial backers—an unmistakable sign that he’s serious about entering the race.
“He was in town meeting with all the folks you need to meet with. He told them he is in,” one source told NBC News. Donalds himself kept things close to the chest but didn’t deny his interest, saying, “I’m fully focused on helping President Trump pass his America First Agenda. Florida will proudly lead the way.”
Donalds’ close alignment with Trump is no secret, and while he hasn’t been offered a spot in Trump’s incoming administration, that could be strategic. Trump might recognize that Donalds is positioning himself to take the reins in Florida, making a federal role unnecessary. This alignment could give Donalds a significant advantage in a state where Trump’s influence remains dominant.
With some potential competitors stepping aside, Donalds’ path is clearing. Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis has opted to run for Congress, and Attorney General Ashley Moody is reportedly Trump’s top choice to fill Marco Rubio’s Senate seat. This leaves Donalds facing off against Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, a former state Senate president, as the most prominent GOP contender.
But there’s still a wildcard: Matt Gaetz. Despite recently withdrawing from consideration for U.S. Attorney General and snagging a cushy media gig at One America News, Gaetz hasn’t ruled out a gubernatorial bid. “Florida needs a Governor who can break the control insurance companies have over Tallahassee. I can do that, so it’s something Ginger and I are considering,” Gaetz teased.
If Gaetz jumps in, the race could become a MAGA heavyweight showdown. But for now, Byron Donalds is emerging as the frontrunner to carry the torch for Florida’s conservative future.
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