President Donald Trump has thrown his full support behind Representative Byron Donalds in a bold move that could reshape the 2026 Florida gubernatorial race. The endorsement announced on Truth Social highlights Donalds as a loyal ally and a fierce advocate for the America First agenda. This development has sent shockwaves through the Republican Party as Donalds now emerges as a frontrunner in a state Trump has long claimed as his political home base.
Byron Donalds has served as the U.S. Representative for Florida’s 19th district since 2021 bringing a strong conservative voice to Congress. His tenure includes pushing for border security and economic growth while defending Second Amendment rights. Trump praised Donalds’ leadership calling him a total winner tested at the highest levels.
The endorsement comes as current Governor Ron DeSantis faces term limits leaving the seat open in 2026. DeSantis has remained silent on Trump’s pick instead hinting at support for his wife Casey to run. This sets up a potential clash between Trump’s influence and DeSantis’ lingering power in Florida politics.
Donalds has not yet officially declared his candidacy but signaled an announcement is imminent. His close ties to Trump including campaigning for him in 2024 have bolstered his profile among GOP voters. If elected he would become Florida’s first Black governor marking a historic milestone.
Critics within the party argue it’s too early for such a decisive endorsement pointing to other potential candidates like Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson. However Trump’s backing historically carries weight as seen with DeSantis’ 2018 primary win fueled by a late Trump nod. Political observers say this move could freeze out competitors early.
Donalds’ record isn’t without scrutiny as an ethics complaint filed in 2024 accused him of failing to disclose up to 1.6 million dollars in stock trades. He has dismissed the allegations as baseless but the issue could resurface in a gubernatorial bid. Supporters argue his business background strengthens his case to lead Florida’s economy.
Trump’s endorsement emphasizes Donalds’ commitment to fighting illegal immigration and boosting American energy dominance. These priorities align with the former president’s agenda potentially giving Donalds a clear platform to rally conservative voters. The question remains whether he can unite the party’s factions in a crowded primary field.
Florida voters will watch closely as Donalds weighs his next steps with Trump’s support likely amplifying his campaign’s reach. The state’s political landscape long dominated by Trump’s influence could see Donalds ride this wave to the governor’s mansion. For now the race is heating up well before the official starting line.
Coverage Details
| Total News Sources | 48 |
| Left | 12 |
| Right | 18 |
| Center | 10 |
| Unrated | 8 |
| Bias Distribution | 38% Right |
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