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13h ago

Paul Renner Enters Florida Governor’s Race as DeSantis Says He Won’t Back Him

DeSantis’ public rejection of Renner’s bid reinforces Byron Donalds’ early advantage with Trump’s endorsement and major cash.

FILE - This photo combination show, from top left, Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, R-Palm Coast, speaking on Jan. 9, 2024, in Tallahassee, Fla., U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, March 28, 2025, in Bonita Springs, Fla. Florida first lady Casey DeSantis, March 5, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. and Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, Aug. 21, 2025, in Stockton, Calif. (AP Photo/Gary McCullough, Chris Tilley, Chris O'Meara, Benjamin Fanjoy)
FILE - Florida House Speaker Paul Renner speaks during a press conference in Miami, on May 9, 2023. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell, File)
Former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner said he's launching a bid for governor. (Douglas R. Clifford/Tampa Bay Times/TNS)
Florida State House Speaker Paul Renner greets the legislative body as he speaks before Republican presidential candidate Florida Governor Ron DeSantis makes his State of the State address in Tallahassee, Florida, on January 9, 2024.

Overview

  • Renner filed Wednesday to run for governor in 2026, becoming the second prominent Republican to enter the race to succeed term-limited Ron DeSantis.
  • DeSantis said he is not supporting Renner and called the decision to enter the race ill-advised, marking a clear break with his former House ally.
  • U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds is widely viewed as the front-runner, boosted by President Donald Trump’s endorsement and more than $20 million raised.
  • Renner highlights his tenure as House speaker from 2022 to 2024, citing legislation expanding school choice, enacting a six-week abortion ban, allowing permitless concealed carry, and restricting gender-affirming care for minors.
  • Reporting indicates DeSantis is seeking a preferred candidate, with Lt. Gov. Jay Collins and Casey DeSantis mentioned, as Renner starts with about $1 million in political committees and a crowded field with limited fundraising.