A significant development has emerged in the 2026 Florida gubernatorial race, as Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) is reportedly preparing to throw his hat into the ring. This move sets the stage for a highly anticipated Republican primary, with several prominent contenders vying to succeed term-limited Governor Ron DeSantis.
Donalds, a staunch ally of President-elect Trump, has begun laying the groundwork for his campaign. According to sources, he recently shared his intentions to run with donors and party insiders during a private meeting at the Florida Republican Party gathering in Orlando. Since then, his schedule has been filled with meetings in Tallahassee with key lobbyists and financial backers, a clear indication of his serious interest in entering the race.
One source revealed to NBC News, “He was in town meeting with all the folks you need to meet with. He told them he is in.” While Donalds himself has kept his plans close to the chest, he didn’t deny his interest, stating, “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 well-known, and although he hasn’t been offered a spot in Trump’s incoming administration, this could be a strategic move. Trump may 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 to the nomination is becoming clearer. 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.
However, there is still a wildcard in the mix: Matt Gaetz. Despite recently withdrawing from consideration for U.S. Attorney General and securing a media gig at One America News, Gaetz hasn’t ruled out a gubernatorial bid. He teased, “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.”
If Gaetz jumps into the race, it could become a MAGA heavyweight showdown. For now, Byron Donalds is emerging as the frontrunner to carry the torch for Florida’s conservative future.
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