Politics

US Midterms: Florida Governor's Race

Is Donalds the clear successor to DeSantis, is he not conservative enough or could Democrats flip Florida blue?

Published 9 hours ago

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Above: Frontrunner Byron Donalds speaks at a Cuban restaurant in Miami on March 2. Image credit: Pedro Portal/Miami Herald/Getty Images

The Spin

Republican narrative

Byron Donalds offers Republicans their strongest chance to keep Florida on the conservative path built under Ron DeSantis. Backed by President Trump and a record-breaking campaign, Donalds pairs proven conservative credentials with detailed plans to lower housing, healthcare and insurance costs while preparing Florida for future growth. Moreover, he understands that David Jolly is a moderate-sounding Trojan horse whose agenda would pull the state left after decades of Republican success.

Breitbart

Chase Russel No Comment on Substack

Florida's Voice on X

Conservative narrative

Byron Donalds believes his Trump endorsement and current polling data have anointed him the next governor, but voters still have lots of time to decide. Whether they favor Fishback's youthful, populist conservatism or Collins' conservative legacy with DeSantis, many Floridians are afraid Donalds is not the man for the job. From data centers to Israel to immigration, voters deserve to see how Donalds matches up against his opponents in a debate before the election.

Tampa Free Press Floridianpress American Conservative

Democratic narrative

Florida Democrats are serious contenders by offering exhausted voters a practical alternative to years of one-party rule, culture-war politics and rising costs. David Jolly's calm, affordability-first campaign is built to reach independents and disaffected Republicans beyond the Democratic base. Recent special-election flips, 3,000 new volunteers and a $20 million congressional investment suggest the party has real momentum despite the GOP's registration edge.

Politico WLRN The New York Times

Progressive narrative

While David Jolly does seem the likely Democratic nominee, there are several other candidates worthy of voters' attention. The rest of the field offers a range of perspectives, from progressive legislators and working-class outsiders to first-time candidates emphasizing affordability, healthcare, education and political reform. For Democratic voters seeking a fresh face or a more unapologetically progressive alternative, the primary still offers meaningful choices beyond the frontrunner.

Florida Phoenix