NewsWFLA News Channel 8August 18, 2026Hillsborough
Rep. Byron Donalds announces candidacy for Florida Governor
Florida Representative Byron Donalds has launched a campaign to succeed term-limited Governor Ron DeSantis. If elected, Donalds would become the first Black governor in Florida's history.
Read the full story at WFLA News Channel 8Why It Matters
The entry of a high-profile candidate into the gubernatorial race shifts the political landscape for the upcoming election cycle and the future leadership of Florida's executive branch.
Key Facts
- Rep. Byron Donalds is running for Governor of Florida.
- Byron Donalds is currently a U.S. Representative.
- The current Governor, Ron DeSantis, is term-limited.
- If elected, Donalds would be the first Black governor of Florida.
Who's Mentioned
personRon DeSantis“Term-limited Governor of Florida”personMadison Cawthorn“Former North Carolina Representative running for a Florida House seat”personDebbie Wasserman Schultz“Democratic U.S. Representative seeking a 12th term”personByron Donalds“Republican Representative running for Governor of Florida”personSheila Cherfilus-McCormick“Former U.S. Representative running for her former seat”personJohn James“Republican Representative in Michigan”locationBroward County“Area affected by congressional redistricting”personDavid Jolly“Former Republican-turned-Democrat candidate”locationFlorida“State where the election is taking place”personChris Collins“Former New York Representative running for a Florida House seat”