Byron Donalds Kicks Off Gubernatorial Campaign in Florida

BONITA SPRINGS, Fla. (AP) — U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds officially launched his gubernatorial campaign Friday evening, March 28, 2025, with a lively rally at Sugarshack, a popular live music venue in his hometown. The event marked the beginning of Donalds’ quest to succeed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who is nearing the end of his term.

Backed by former President Donald Trump, Donalds addressed a crowd of enthusiastic supporters, outlining key priorities for his campaign. He emphasized the need to tackle Florida’s ongoing insurance crisis, invest in infrastructure, restore the Everglades, and ensure that children in schools excel in critical subjects like math and reading.

“This is the free state of Florida, and as your next governor, it will remain the free state of Florida,” Donalds declared during his speech, which was filled with calls to action and personal anecdotes reflecting his journey from New York to becoming a congressman in Florida.

Following an introduction from his wife, Erika Donalds, Byron took the stage to the motivational tune of “The Time is Now” by John Cena. The audience responded with cheers, waving signs that read “Team Donalds.” In his speech, he recounted arriving in Florida at 17 years old with nothing but a bag of clothes and how his first political event was a tea party rally in Naples.

“Together, we will get this done. Together, Florida will continue to be the best state in America and show the other 49 how to get the job done,” he concluded, inviting his family on stage with him.

Donalds, 46, currently faces no significant challengers in the Republican primary. However, speculation has persisted that DeSantis’ wife, Casey DeSantis, could potentially enter the race to maintain the administration’s legacy.

In the coming weeks, Donalds aims to secure endorsements from Florida legislators and key congressional members, bolstering his position within the party. His campaign’s momentum may prove crucial, especially given Trump’s backing, which has historically provided considerable advantages in both gubernatorial and congressional races.

Potential opponents from the Republican side include former U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz, who has indicated interest in running, and Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, who has had conflicts with DeSantis over policies like immigration.

Although Donalds may lack widespread name recognition outside his district, he is respected within Republican circles and has previously been mentioned as a potential vice presidential candidate.

As the campaign unfolds, residents across Florida will watch closely to see how Donalds positions himself against any latecomers to the race and how his policies resonate with voters in the lead-up to the primary.