Byron Donalds selects Bryan Avila as Florida running mate

Republican gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds has selected Florida State Senator Bryan Ávila as his running mate for the upcoming election. The announcement took place at Miami’s historic Freedom Tower, a location symbolic of Cuban immigration history.

Ávila, a 42-year-old Hialeah resident and captain in the Florida Army National Guard, is the son of Cuban exiles. His selection is viewed as a strategic move to consolidate support among South Florida’s Cuban American community and Hispanic voters. During his announcement, Ávila pledged to combat socialism, citing his family's history of fleeing communism in Cuba.

The Republican ticket will face Democratic nominee David Jolly and his running mate, Gwen Graham. While the choice has been praised by many conservatives for Ávila’s legislative experience and military background, some Second Amendment groups expressed concern regarding his past voting record on gun control legislation in the Florida House.

Separately, Donalds has faced criticism from opponents and residents for attributing economic challenges to Democratic policies and the Obama administration. He has also addressed international issues, stating his support for a free Cuba and discussing his engagement regarding the stabilization of Haiti.