Byron Donalds

Byron Donalds is a Republican U.S. Representative from Florida's 19th Congressional District (Southwest Florida/Naples area), serving since 2021. A Brooklyn native, he came to Florida over 20 years ago to study at Florida A&M University and Florida State University. He has been involved in Florida politics for approximately a decade. Donalds is running to succeed term-limited Governor Ron DeSantis in the 2026 gubernatorial race. He received President Donald Trump's endorsement before officially announcing his campaign in March 2025. As of Q1 2026, his campaign has raised over $67 million — the largest total for a non-incumbent candidate for Governor in the first quarter of an election year. Polling shows him leading the Republican primary with 46% support (Emerson College, March 2026).

The Governor of Florida is the chief executive of the state government. Powers include signing or vetoing legislation passed by the Florida Legislature, appointing cabinet members and judges, commanding the Florida National Guard, issuing executive orders, and managing the state budget. The Governor serves a four-year term and is limited to two consecutive terms under the Florida Constitution. Florida's Governor oversees one of the nation's largest state economies and a population of over 22 million residents.