Donalds Campaigns on DeSantis Record as Florida Governor's Race Tightens
Republican Byron Donalds relies on Trump and DeSantis affiliation in tight race against Democrat David Jolly.
What to know
- Donalds' gubernatorial campaign rests almost entirely on alignment with Trump and DeSantis, offering few policy details beyond continuity.
- A late October poll showed Donalds leading Jolly 51–45 percent, but Republican margins statewide have halved since mid-October, signaling a tightening race.
- Donalds' tie to DeSantis-era culture war policies—many struck down by courts or proven costly failures—is dragging on his candidacy as national pessimism over the economy grows.
- Election is November 5, 2026; Donalds would become Florida's first Black governor if elected.
“Florida hasn't happened by accident. This is something that has been about consistent leadership over time in our state. Gov. DeSantis has done a great job.”
Byron Donalds, Republican gubernatorial candidate · Reason (Fox Business interview) ↗
Byron Donalds Republican gubernatorial candidate
David Jolly Democratic gubernatorial candidate
Ron DeSantis Current Florida governor
Donald Trump U.S. President
How it unfolded 0 developments, newest first · click a bar or a number to jump
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background
Donalds makes final campaign push before election day — In closing arguments, Donalds emphasizes continuity with Trump and DeSantis at campaign events, arguing Florida is 'the best state in America' under Republican leadership.
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DeSantis-era policies become liability for Donalds campaign — Analysis notes that many of DeSantis' culture war bills have been expensive failures, with courts striking down his social media ban for minors and portions of the 'Stop WOKE Act,' while Donalds ties his campaign to the same playbook.
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background
Stetson poll shows Donalds leading but margins narrowing — A Stetson University poll released October 30 finds Donalds ahead of Democrat David Jolly 51–45 percent, but shows statewide Republican candidates' margins roughly half of what was measured in mid-October.
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background
Donalds wins Republican gubernatorial primary — Rep. Byron Donalds wins the Republican nomination for Florida governor and delivers a victory speech pledging to preserve 'the Florida dream.'