Show of Force: Trump Ally Byron Donalds Launches Campaign to Succeed Florida Gov. DeSantis

Republican Congressman Byron Donalds officially kicked off his campaign for Florida governor today with a hometown rally in Bonita Springs. The conservative lawmaker, who has represented Florida's 19th Congressional District for four years, is the first major GOP candidate to enter the 2026 race to replace term-limited Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Donalds, a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, announced his candidacy on Fox News' "Hannity" earlier this month, shortly after securing Trump's endorsement. In a show of MAGA-world solidarity, both Donald Trump Jr. and Turning Point USA leader Charlie Kirk have recorded videos supporting Donalds' campaign launch, while conservative commentator Benny Johnson will speak at the event.

"I think what you’ll see is a show of force," said veteran Republican strategist Stephen Lawson, adding that Donalds' growing momentum across the state will be evident in both grassroots support and fundraising efforts.

This campaign kickoff also comes as Casey DeSantis, Florida's first lady, has hinted at her own potential gubernatorial run. When asked about her intentions, she cryptically responded with a Yogi Berra quote: "If you see a fork in the road, take it," leaving reporters to speculate on her next move. Gov. DeSantis has been vocal in praising his wife's accomplishments, framing her as a strong potential successor.

Meanwhile, Donalds has been careful to balance respect for the current administration with his own ambitions. "We have a great governor," he said on "Hannity." "Ron DeSantis has done a tremendous job for our state. But now the job is to keep the best state in the country as the best state in the country."

Donalds' internal polling suggests he holds a slight lead over Casey DeSantis in a hypothetical GOP primary. However, when respondents are informed of Trump's endorsement, Donalds' lead expands significantly, underscoring Trump's enduring grip on the Republican base.

Florida, once a swing state, has leaned heavily Republican in recent election cycles. DeSantis won re-election in 2022 by nearly 20 points, and Trump carried the state by 13 points last November. With the state now firmly red, the winner of the Republican primary will likely be the frontrunner in the general election.

As Donalds sets out on this campaign, one thing is clear: He intends to make this race his to win. Friday's rally marks the beginning of what promises to be a high-stakes showdown for Florida's top political office.