Byron Donalds Wins Republican Primary for Florida Governor

Trump-backed Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) won the Republican nomination for governor on Tuesday in a primary that featured multiple candidates seeking to succeed Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL). With 90 percent of the vote counted, Donalds received about 48 percent, ahead of Lt. Gov. Jay Collins (R-FL) at 25 percent and businessman James Fishback (R-FL) at 10 percent. Decision Desk HQ called the race at 8 p.m. ET.

Donalds said in a Tuesday night speech, “I want to start by thanking God for all His blessings and protection over my family, and over my team. Tonight, the primary is over. Tonight, we put aside our differences. Tonight, we are one united Republican Party.”

Donalds, born in New York City, has represented Florida’s 19th Congressional District since 2021. He was mentioned as a possible vice presidential candidate in 2024. In an interview with The Daily Wire at the time, Donalds said, “It’d be a great honor, but it’s his decision. He’ll decide what he wants to do, and whatever his decision is, I’m going to support that. I just want to win. I’m a real simple dude. I just want to win and be successful. That’s it.”

Trump endorsed Donalds in May, stating on Truth Social that Donalds was “highly respected” and would advance the “America First Agenda.” Trump added, “I know Byron well, have seen him tested at the highest and most difficult levels, and he is a TOTAL WINNER. Byron Donalds will be a truly Great and Powerful Governor for Florida, and has my Complete and Total Endorsement — HE WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!”

Donalds campaigned on advancing Trump’s agenda, measures to address illegal immigration, removal of certain instructional materials in schools, and opposition to Cuba’s government. Donalds has described his conversion to Christianity as occurring in a Cracker Barrel parking lot. Court records show that at age 18 Donalds faced a marijuana possession charge that was dismissed after completion of a pretrial diversion program, and at age 20 he faced a charge connected to a bank fraud matter involving a bad check; that record was later sealed and expunged.

Fishback, who has faced questions regarding sexual misconduct allegations, financial disputes, and residency requirements, sought to highlight Donalds’ past record. Fishback stated to reporters, “I will apologize for calling Byron Donalds a slave when he gives back the $81 million he has taken from AIPAC, hedge-fund billionaires, and special interests who are trying to pave over the state and turn us into a concrete jungle.” The sexual misconduct allegations against Fishback did not result in a protective order or criminal charges after court hearings; the judge found insufficient evidence.

Fishback, age 31 and aligned with Tucker Carlson, campaigned on banning data centers, suspending aid to Israel, a tax on OnlyFans, and changes to the H-1B visa program.

DeSantis, who is barred from seeking a third term, did not endorse a candidate in the primary. He praised former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner and, in a press conference last year, said, “We’ve achieved victories in Florida. A guy like Byron, he just hasn’t been a part of any of the victories that we’ve had here over the Left over these last years.” Donalds and DeSantis had worked together earlier but differed in 2023 over education standards that addressed skills developed by enslaved people. Donalds posted on social media at the time that the standards were “good, robust, & accurate” but that “the attempt to feature the personal benefits of slavery is wrong & needs to be adjusted.”

Donalds has said he expects to receive DeSantis’ support in the general election. Donalds has stated he will continue efforts against certain instructional approaches in schools and state government. Under DeSantis, Florida enacted policies on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, abortion, and transgender issues. The state obtained a legal ruling in its challenge to a law restricting minors from attending certain live performances.

The November general election will follow the end of DeSantis’ second term. Florida’s Republican voter registration advantage stands at roughly 1.5 million. Democrats would need to close that gap by increasing support among Hispanic voters and among voters who have supported Republican candidates in recent statewide races.

Donalds will face Democratic nominee David Jolly, a former Republican congressman who supports repeal of Florida’s abortion restrictions. Jolly’s campaign website states, “Culture wars divide and demonize. Florida should reject the politics of division and hate, and instead create a home where everyone is valued, respected, and welcomed. Florida should embrace our immigrant community and celebrate their contributions to our state’s culture and economy.”

The Cook Political Report rates the general election race as Solid Republican.