Trump’s Endorsement of Byron Donalds for Florida Governor: A Strategic Move in the 2026 Gubernatorial Race

President Donald Trump has made it abundantly clear that he will support Congressman Byron Donalds in the highly anticipated 2026 Florida gubernatorial race. Trump, a Florida resident and a close ally of Donalds, took to social media to express his enthusiasm for the congressman’s potential candidacy. "I am hearing that Highly Respected Congressman Byron Donalds is considering running for Governor of Florida, a State that I love, and WON BIG in 2016, 2020, and 2024," Trump wrote. He emphasized that Donalds, a longtime friend and supporter, "would be a truly Great and Powerful Governor for Florida." Trump went further, stating that if Donalds decides to run, he will have his "Complete and Total Endorsement." This public backing underscores Trump’s confidence in Donalds’ ability to lead Florida and reflects the strong political alliance between the two men.

Byron Donalds’ Political Ambitions and Preparations for the Gubernatorial Race

Congressman Byron Donalds, a conservative lawmaker representing Florida’s 19th District, has been contemplating a gubernatorial bid for nearly a year. In a spring interview with Fox News Digital, Donalds hinted at his interest, stating, "I’ve thought about it. I don’t really rule anything out." This ambiguity has since turned into concrete steps, with sources confirming that Donalds has been informing potential donors and key political figures in Florida of his intent to run. To strengthen his position, Donalds recently hired Tony Fabrizio, a prominent Republican pollster who worked on Trump’s 2016 and 2024 presidential campaigns. This move signals Donalds’ seriousness about launching a robust campaign. Behind the scenes, Donalds has been actively seeking Trump’s endorsement, aiming to solidify his position as the front-runner for the GOP nomination and discourage potential rivals from entering the race.

A Crowded Field of Potential Republican Candidates

While Byron Donalds appears to be the early frontrunner, the 2026 Florida gubernatorial race is shaping up to be a competitive contest. Several high-profile Republicans are reportedly considering bids to succeed Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is term-limited and widely expected to pursue a presidential campaign. One notable contender is Wilton Simpson, Florida’s Agriculture Commissioner and a former state Senate president. Simpson’s experience in state government and his conservative credentials make him a formidable potential challenger. Additionally, there has been speculation about Casey DeSantis, the wife of Gov. Ron DeSantis, potentially entering the race. A recent poll suggesting she would be the favorite has generated significant buzz, though no official announcement has been made.

Another possible candidate is former Rep. Matt Gaetz, a staunch Trump ally who briefly floated the idea of running for governor late last year. However, in recent months, Gaetz’s potential candidacy has gained little traction, leaving some to question whether he will ultimately join the race. Regardless of who enters the field, the competition is expected to be fierce, with each candidate vying for the support of Florida’s Republican base.

The Power of Trump’s Endorsement in the Florida Gubernatorial Race

Donald Trump’s endorsement of Byron Donalds carries significant weight in Florida, a state that has become a reliable Republican stronghold. Trump, who has made Florida his adopted home, has a strong track record in the state, winning decisively in 2016, 2020, and 2024. His influence over Florida’s Republican voters is unparalleled, and his full-throated support for Donalds is likely to sway many voters in the primary. Trump’s endorsement is particularly valuable in a state where Republican primaries often hinge on candidate loyalty to Trump and his "America First" agenda.

The importance of Trump’s backing is not lost on Donalds, who has been actively court