PALM BEACH, Florida – President Donald Trump publicly endorsed Representative Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) for the role of Florida governor in the 2026 election, should Donalds decide to run.
Trump made the announcement via his Truth Social platform, stating, “Byron Donalds would be a truly Great and Powerful Governor for Florida and, should he decide to run, will have my Complete and Total Endorsement. RUN, BYRON, RUN!” He praised Donalds as a “TOTAL WINNER” and highlighted their close alliance, noting that as governor, Donalds would work with him to advance the “America First Agenda,” focusing on issues like border security, military strength, and economic power.
Donalds, a conservative congressman representing Florida’s 19th District, has not yet officially declared his candidacy but responded to the endorsement on X, saying, “President Trump is Making America Great Again. I’m committed to working with him to Keep Florida Great. Announcement coming soon!”
Trump’s endorsement, given his significant influence in Florida—where he resides and won decisively in recent elections—could give Donalds a strong advantage in the Republican primary for the seat, which will be vacated by term-limited Governor Ron DeSantis in January 2027.
The endorsement comes amid speculation about other potential candidates, including Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis, though her husband recently downplayed her interest in running.
Earlier in the week, Trump shared a Victory Insights poll showing Donalds leading a hypothetical GOP primary with 31% support, far ahead of competitors like Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez (4%) and Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson (3%).