U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds Announces Bid for Florida Governor

Veteran Republican congressman launches campaign to succeed outgoing Governor DeSantis.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 1:25am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cinematic painting depicting a lone politician standing in front of a stately government building, the scene bathed in warm sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and political transition.As the race to succeed Florida's term-limited governor heats up, a veteran Republican congressman positions himself as the heir to the state's conservative leadership.Pensacola Today

U.S. Representative Byron Donalds has officially announced his candidacy for Governor of Florida, entering the race to succeed the term-limited incumbent, Governor Ron DeSantis. Donalds, a conservative Republican, has represented Florida's 19th congressional district since 2021 and is positioning himself as a continuation of DeSantis' hardline policies.

Why it matters

Donalds' entry into the gubernatorial race adds another high-profile Republican to the field, signaling an intensely competitive primary battle to determine the party's nominee. As a sitting congressman, Donalds brings name recognition and an established fundraising network, but will need to differentiate himself from other potential contenders.

The details

In a televised announcement, Donalds touted his conservative credentials and vowed to build on the policies championed by the outgoing governor. He criticized the Biden administration's handling of the economy and promised to enact further tax cuts and business-friendly regulations if elected.

  • Donalds announced his gubernatorial campaign on April 19, 2026.
  • Governor Ron DeSantis is term-limited and cannot run for re-election.

The players

U.S. Representative Byron Donalds

A Republican congressman representing Florida's 19th district since 2021, Donalds is now launching a bid to succeed Governor Ron DeSantis.

Governor Ron DeSantis

The current Republican Governor of Florida, who is term-limited and cannot run for re-election in 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'm running for Governor of Florida to continue the conservative revolution that Governor DeSantis has championed. As your next Governor, I'll fight to keep Florida free, prosperous, and secure.”

— U.S. Representative Byron Donalds, Candidate for Florida Governor

What’s next

Donalds will need to win a competitive Republican primary before facing the Democratic nominee in the general election this November.

The takeaway

Donalds' entry into the Florida gubernatorial race sets up a high-stakes battle within the Republican Party, as the party seeks to retain control of the governor's mansion in a key swing state.