Rep. Byron Donalds Announces Run for Florida Governor with Trump Endorsement

Republican U.S. Representative Byron Donalds of Naples declared his candidacy for the 2026 Florida governor’s race, entering the contest with former President Donald Trump's endorsement. Donalds, a three‑term House member and former state legislator, is widely viewed as the frontrunner after raising more than $100 million from his campaign committee and personal fund, including a $10 million donation from billionaire Ken Griffin.

He said his priorities would include lowering insurance costs, expanding the cryptocurrency industry, and protecting the Everglades wetlands. Incumbent Governor Ron DeSantis is term‑limited and has not formally backed any successor. Donalds' campaign emphasizes a conservative record and promises to keep Florida "great," positioning himself as the leading Trump‑backed candidate for the state's top office.