Byron Donalds Emerges as Early GOP Front-Runner in Florida Governor’s Race Amid Casey DeSantis Speculation

Florida Congressman Byron Donalds has emerged as the early favorite among Republican voters in the 2026 gubernatorial race, according to recent polling, outpacing potential candidate Casey DeSantis, the state’s first lady.

With Republican Governor Ron DeSantis ineligible to run again due to term limits, speculation has been building over who will lead the Sunshine State into its next chapter. The race has already drawn national attention, with former President Donald Trump playing a pivotal role in shaping the early dynamics.

A new poll conducted from July 8–10 surveyed 831 likely Republican primary voters and found Donalds leading in preliminary matchups, signaling strong early momentum. The survey carries a margin of error of ±3.4 percentage points.

Trump’s endorsement of Donalds in February appears to have significantly boosted the congressman’s profile. That backing also prompted Donalds to formally launch his gubernatorial campaign, positioning him as a key figure in what is expected to be a competitive GOP primary.

Donalds, if successful, would make history as Florida’s first Black governor – a prospect that could further energize his base and reshape the state’s political narrative.