Race Heats Up as Congressman Byron Donalds Aims for Florida Governorship

Hendry County, Florida, USA - Florida’s political landscape is stirring as Congressman Byron Donalds steps into the ring for the gubernatorial race, igniting a contest to fill his seat in Florida’s 19th Congressional District. With five Republicans already throwing their hats in the ring—Dylan Modarelli, Mike Pedersen, Jim Schwartzel, John Fratto, and Jim Oberweis—the competition is set to heat up as candidates vie for a position that has recently witnessed significant political expenditure and a barrage of candidates.

As Byron Donalds, a prominent figure in the political arena, transitions from Congress to seek the governor’s seat, the fallout is palpable. Rumored to be considering a run for Donalds‘ seat is State Senator Jonathan Martin, who is observing developments in Tallahassee closely, especially awaiting the state budget’s approval. Meanwhile, Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno has shown interest in a potential candidacy, though his future plans might be hindered by a federal investigation concerning money laundering. As the race unfolds, many across the community are left wondering who will ultimately step up to fill the void left by Donalds.

The Gubernatorial Bid

Congressman Byron Donalds officially launched his campaign for governor during the 2024 Republican National Convention, where he garnered the „Complete and Total Endorsement“ of former President Donald Trump. If victorious, Donalds would mark a significant milestone as the first Black governor of Florida. Current Governor Ron DeSantis, who cannot seek re-election due to term limits, has paved the way for Donalds, whose campaign promises to maintain Florida’s status as the leading state in the country.

Even amid the cheers, Donalds isn’t without his controversies. Though he has publicly addressed issues surrounding his past legal troubles, he faces ongoing criticism for his conservative stances and his connection to contentious political discussions, including remarks about marriage rates during the Jim Crow era. Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried has labeled him a „dangerous political opportunist,“ calling into question his qualifications.

Political Backing

Support for Donalds in his gubernatorial ambition is solidifying, as top Congressional leaders rally behind him. Figures such as House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik have praised Donalds for his fiscal discipline and adherence to conservative values. He’s also receiving backing from prominent members of Florida’s congressional delegation, including U.S. Reps. Mario Díaz-Balart, Scott Franklin, and many others, signaling strong party unity behind him.

Interestingly, the dynamics in this race echo those from the previous presidential election cycle, where many congressional Republicans initially favored Trump over DeSantis. Now, leading PACs, such as Club for Growth, have shifted support from DeSantis to Donalds, further amplifying his campaign’s momentum, which has already raised over $12 million in just the first quarter of 2025.

The Road Ahead

As Donalds campaigns for the governor’s office, Florida’s 19th Congressional District is poised to undergo a significant change. With the seat expected to remain in Republican hands, the upcoming race to succeed Donalds will be closely monitored as candidates emerge in hopes of resonating with the electorate. Voters will soon have the chance to weigh in on who they believe will best serve their interests, both in Congress and at the state level.

As the story unfolds, many are left asking: Who will rise to meet the challenge in District 19, and what direction will Florida take under Byron Donalds‘ leadership? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the political winds in Florida are shifting, and every player will need to be prepared for the game ahead.

For more details about the unfolding race, you can check out the reports from The Capitolist, Tallahassee.com, and Florida Politics.