Byron Donalds Launches 2026 Florida Governor Campaign with Trump Endorsement

The U.S. congressman officially enters the race with a rally in Bonita Springs, positioning himself as the leading Republican candidate to succeed Ron DeSantis.

Byron Donalds formally launched his 2026 Florida gubernatorial campaign with a rally in Bonita Springs, Florida, on March 28, 2025.
Donalds has secured the endorsement of former President Donald Trump, which has significantly bolstered his early campaign momentum.
He is currently the only major Republican candidate in the race, though speculation continues about Casey DeSantis potentially entering the contest.
Internal polling shows Donalds narrowly leading Casey DeSantis in a hypothetical primary, with his advantage widening when voters are informed of Trump’s endorsement.
Donalds has emphasized his intention to continue the conservative policies of Governor Ron DeSantis while forging his own path in Florida's Republican stronghold.