2026 Florida Governor Race

When asked by a reporter about the 2026 contest, she replied by using a quote from baseball legend Yogi Berra: “When you come to a fork in the road, take it.”

Donalds' announcement comes after he got a critical endorsement from President Donald Trump, which may clear the Republican primary pool for Donalds given the president's influence in elections.

U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Naples, ended the speculation by saying he will run in 2026. If elected, he would become Florida's first Black governor.

The gubernatorial election in Florida isn’t until 2026, but President Donald Trump posted his preferred choice on Truth Social: U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds of Naples.

The first lady had a 30% favorability rating among respondents. Most of the other potential candidates suffered from a lack of recognition. Former Rep. Matt Gaetz had a 39% unfavorable rating.