Rep. Byron Donalds has officially launched his campaign for Florida governor, positioning himself as the natural successor to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ policies while securing former President Donald Trump’s endorsement. However, his campaign faces challenges, including potential competition from Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis and skepticism from the current governor.
Byron Donalds Launches Campaign for Florida Governor
Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) officially kicked off his gubernatorial campaign in Bonita Springs, Florida, on March 28, 2025. Donalds, a close ally of former President Donald Trump, framed himself as a continuation of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ conservative policies while also introducing his own agenda for the state.
Trump’s Endorsement and Its Impact
Donalds walked onto the stage to “The Time Is Now” and emphasized that Trump had endorsed him in the 2026 Florida gubernatorial race. He credited the former president’s support as a testament to his leadership qualities, promising to maintain Florida’s status as a model for conservative governance. Trump’s endorsement is a major political advantage in Florida, a state where he has won multiple elections and continues to hold significant influence.
Donalds’ Policy Priorities
During his speech, Donalds highlighted his policy agenda, which includes:
- Lowering property insurance costs
- Reducing traffic congestion
- Restoring the Everglades
- Strengthening Florida’s status as a financial hub
- Cutting taxes
- Improving education outcomes
Unlike other challengers, Donalds did not directly criticize DeSantis but instead praised his governance while suggesting that further improvements were needed.
Ron DeSantis’ Opposition to Donalds’ Campaign
Despite their past alliance, DeSantis has not endorsed Donalds. Instead, he has dismissed the campaign as premature and suggested that his wife, Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis, might enter the race. The governor has also questioned whether Donalds is conservative enough to continue his policy legacy.
Potential Trump vs. DeSantis Proxy Battle
If Casey DeSantis enters the race, it would further highlight the ongoing tensions between Trump and DeSantis. Trump has previously criticized DeSantis for being disloyal after running against him in the 2024 Republican presidential primary. The gubernatorial race could become another battleground between the two political figures.
Support from MAGA Republicans
Donalds’ campaign has received endorsements from multiple pro-Trump Republicans, including Rep. Cory Mills (R-Fla.) and Rep. Kat Cammack (R-Fla.). Mills stated that Trump’s endorsement would help Donalds secure a strong lead, while Cammack praised Donalds for his work in Congress.
Protests and Opposition
The rally was met with protests from demonstrators holding signs with messages such as “Fight Florida Fascism” and “Immigrants Make America Greater.” Donalds’ supporters responded with chants of “USA! USA!”
Donalds’ Background and Political History
Donalds is currently serving his third term in Congress and is a member of the House Freedom Caucus. He was once close to DeSantis, even assisting in his 2018 gubernatorial debate preparations. However, their relationship deteriorated after Donalds endorsed Trump over DeSantis in the 2024 presidential primary and criticized elements of Florida’s African American history curriculum.
Looking Ahead
Donalds’ entry into the race marks the beginning of what could be a highly competitive Republican primary. While no other major candidates have officially declared, challengers have until next year to enter. With Trump’s backing and potential opposition from the DeSantis camp, the Florida governor’s race is expected to be one of the most closely watched elections in 2026.
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