U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, a prominent Florida Republican, is considering a run for governor in 2026, bolstered by an endorsement from former President Donald Trump. Donalds recently received the 2025 FAMU Impact Award, recognizing his contributions to the university and the state. As a rising star in the Republican Party, Donalds has been a strong advocate for school choice and is poised to announce his candidacy soon.
U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, a Republican from Naples, is gaining momentum as he considers a run for Florida governor in 2026. Recently endorsed by former President Donald Trump, Donalds is a rising star in the Republican Party, known for his advocacy of school choice and conservative values. He was recently honored with the 2025 FAMU Impact Award, recognizing his contributions to Florida A&M University and his potential impact as a future leader.
Florida A&M University (FAMU) recently honored U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds with the 2025 FAMU Impact Award, recognizing his service to the university, the state of Florida, and the nation. The award was presented by FAMU's interim President Timothy Beard during the Black Conservative Federation’s Legacy of Freedom Ball in Washington, D.C. Beard praised Donalds, stating, “Mr. Donalds is changing the world.” Donalds, who attended FAMU from 1996 to 1999, expressed pride in his connection to the university, emphasizing his commitment to improving Florida and the nation. This recognition highlights Donalds' ongoing relationship with FAMU and his influence as a former student and supporter of the institution [1].
Byron Donalds has seen a rapid rise in the political arena, culminating in a significant endorsement from former President Donald Trump for the 2026 Florida gubernatorial race. Trump expressed his support for Donalds on social media, stating, “Byron Donalds would be a truly Great and Powerful Governor for Florida.” Donalds, who has been a strong supporter of Trump, is expected to announce his candidacy soon. This endorsement is a major boost for Donalds, positioning him as a leading contender in the upcoming race. His political journey has been marked by a commitment to conservative values and a strong alliance with Trump, which has helped him gain prominence within the Republican Party [2].
Byron Donalds has been a vocal advocate for school choice, a cause that he and his wife, Erika, have championed through their involvement with charter schools. They helped establish the Mason Classical Academy in Collier County and have been active in promoting conservative-friendly educational options. Donalds’ political career began with his involvement in the Tea Party movement, leading to his election to the Florida House of Representatives in 2016. He has consistently supported conservative policies, including criminal justice reform and tax initiatives. Donalds' commitment to these causes has solidified his reputation as a dedicated conservative leader, resonating with voters who prioritize educational reform and fiscal conservatism [3].
Byron Donalds is poised to become a significant figure in Florida politics as he considers a gubernatorial run in 2026. With strong endorsements from influential figures like Donald Trump and a track record of advocating for conservative causes, Donalds is well-positioned to make a substantial impact. His recent recognition by FAMU and his commitment to school choice underscore his dedication to improving Florida's future. As he prepares to announce his candidacy, Donalds' influence in the Republican Party continues to grow, setting the stage for a potentially transformative political career.
"Mr. Donalds is changing the world." - Timothy Beard
"Byron Donalds would be a truly Great and Powerful Governor for Florida." - Donald Trump