U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds secured the Republican nomination for governor of Florida on August 18, 2026, easily defeating a crowded field of challengers in the state’s primary election.
Donalds, a third-term congressman representing Florida’s 19th District and a prominent conservative voice, captured approximately 48% of the vote. He finished well ahead of Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, who received about 25%, followed by businessman James Fishback with roughly 10% and former state House Speaker Paul Renner with around 8-9%. Several other candidates trailed further behind.
The victory was widely expected. Donalds had led polls by large margins for months, boosted by an early and strong endorsement from President Donald Trump, who backed him even before he formally entered the race. The congressman also raised substantial campaign funds, exceeding $100 million when including supporting committees.
Donalds, 47, now advances to the November general election against Democratic nominee David Jolly, a former Republican congressman who later switched parties. Florida has shifted solidly Republican in recent years, and analysts view Donalds as the favorite to succeed term-limited Gov. Ron DeSantis. If elected, Donalds would become the state’s first Black governor and continue a streak of consecutive Republican governors dating back more than two decades.
In his victory remarks, Donalds emphasized party unity heading into the fall campaign, stating the primary was over and Republicans would now come together. The race will focus on issues including affordability, immigration enforcement, taxes, and continuing Florida’s conservative policies.
SOURCES:
GOP Rep. Byron Donalds, former Republican David Jolly to face off in Florida governor race
Florida Election Watch – Governor
Byron Donalds wins Florida GOP primary to become DeSantis successor | Fox News
Florida governor primary results live: Byron Donalds, David Jolly win – The Washington Post
