Speculation Grows Around Potential Byron Donalds Candidacy for Florida Governor

Many are eagerly anticipating an announcement from Florida Congressman Byron Donalds regarding his possible run for governor. Former President Donald Trump has already thrown his weight behind Donalds, showcasing a poll that suggests the congressman would lead a hypothetical Republican primary.

Representing Naples, Donalds is a noteworthy figure in the Republican party and a fervent Trump ally, enjoying substantial national visibility. Excitement is mounting as the community awaits confirmation of his candidacy for Florida governor.

Amidst heightened expectations, President Trump is vocally encouraging Donalds with a public entreaty to “RUN, BYRON, RUN!” Trump has also promised full endorsement if Donalds decides to enter the race, leaving many eagerly awaiting official confirmation.

An announcement could come at any moment. On Thursday night, Donalds amplified Trump’s endorsement on X, adding, “President Trump is Making America Great Again. I’m committed to working with him to Keep Florida Great. Announcement coming soon!”

This suspense has led media outlets worldwide to publish headlines such as “Looks like that’s that. Trump may have just ended the Florida governor’s race” and “President Donald Trump boosts Rep. Byron Donalds in race to succeed Florida’s Gov. Ron DeSantis.”

The buzz intensified following Trump’s earlier post of a survey showing Donalds leading in a speculative Florida governor’s race with 31% of the vote, vastly outpacing Florida Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez (4%), Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson (3%), and Miami Mayor Francis Suarez (1%).

Trump also listed several of Donalds’ “notable committed supporters” including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, venture capitalist Marc Andreessen, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum—himself a rumored potential Trump vice-presidential pick.

Meanwhile, a poll released Tuesday by the University of North Florida’s Public Opinion Research Lab highlighted Casey DeSantis, Florida’s First Lady, as the leading potential candidate with a 30% favorable rating, followed by Senator Ashley Moody (20%), former Rep. Matt Gaetz (18%), Donalds (15%), and Simpson (7%).

Hailing from the Tea Party movement, Donalds describes himself as a “Black MAGA patriot” and is known for being one of “President Trump’s strongest supporters in Congress.”

The speculation about Donalds’ gubernatorial ambitions isn’t a new development. In 2023, he informed the Naples Daily News of his openness to the possibility but stated he was maintaining a cautious stance while assessing the situation.