President Donald Trump endorsed Republican Florida Rep. Byron Donalds to serve as the next governor of Florida.
Donalds has yet to announce a run for the 2026 Florida gubernatorial contest, but Trump is imploring the conservative Florida lawmaker to jump into the race, citing his Carol M. Highsmith_support for the president’s America First agenda. Trump’s endorsement is likely to carry significant weight given his residency and political influence in the state.
“Byron Donalds would be a truly Great and Powerful Governor for Florida and, should he decide to run, will have my Complete and Total Endorsement,” Trump wrote on Truth Social Thursday evening. “RUN, BYRON, RUN!”
“As Governor, Byron would have a BIG Voice, and would work closely with me to advance our America First Agenda,” Trump also said. “He will fight tirelessly to Secure our Border, Stop Migrant Crime, Strengthen our Military, Protect our Vets, Restore our Economic Power, Advance American Energy DOMINANCE, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment.”
Trump shared a Victory Insights poll on Truth Social Monday showing Donalds with a significant lead over potential competitors in a hypothetical matchup. Donalds netted 31% support while Republican Florida Lieutenant Gov. Jeanette Nuñez had 4% support followed by state Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson at 3% support.
No Florida Republican has thus far jumped into the GOP primary.
Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has thus far not endorsed a successor, is term-limited.
Donalds is a member of the conservative House Freedom Caucus and is currently serving in his third term representing Florida’s 19th District.
Featured Image Credit: Gage Skidmore from Surprise, AZ, United States of America
