Trump's Favored Candidate Seizes Momentum in Florida's Republican Primary The race for Florida's 2026 Gubernatorial seat is heating up early, and one name is surging ahead: U.S. Representative Byron Donalds.

Fried, the chairperson of the Florida Democratic Party, is the last person to have been elected statewide as a Democrat. But she said she’s not seeking a run for governor in 2026. In a text message, Fried said she’s instead working to improve Democratic winning chances by strengthening the party’s organizing infrastructure.

‘We don’t plan on going anywhere’: Planned Parenthood clinics in Central Florida plan to stay open despite defunding threats under Trump

Donalds (R-Naples) entered the race for governor after an endorsement from President Donald Trump. Since then, he's raised millions for his bid.

Since late-April, when newly minted Democrat David Jolly entered the 2026 Florida governor’s race, he’s raised about $1 million through his political committee and main campaign account.

David Jolly, endorsed by key Democrats, wants to unify Florida voters for the 2026 gubernatorial race amid strong Republican opposition.

Will Byron Donalds be challenged for the Republican nomination for governor in 2026? No serious contender has emerged as of yet, and a new poll published on Monday shows that of the various Republicans being floated as potential opponents to the U.