U.S. Congressman Byron Donalds, a Republican endorsed by President Donald Trump, is maintaining a commanding lead in head-to-head matchups against potential Democratic gubernatorial challengers, according to a newly released poll from the University of North Florida (UNF).
The new polling data places Donalds significantly ahead of two potential Democratic candidates for Florida Governor:
- Byron Donalds: 45% vs. David Jolly: 34% (11-point lead)
- Byron Donalds: 45% vs. Jerry Demings: 33% (12-point lead)
These double-digit margins suggest a strong early position for the Trump-backed candidate in the general election contest.
The favorable general election numbers follow a recent poll that reportedly showed Donalds dominating the Florida Republican primary, holding a lead of more than 35% over potential primary rivals Jay Collins and Paul Renner.
Strong Endorsements and Fundraising
Donalds’ early success is further underscored by a significant show of support from key state and national figures. This month alone, he amassed major endorsements, including former Florida CFO, now Congressman Jimmy Patronis, and Congressman Neal Dunn. Crucially, Donalds has secured the backing of 75% of the Florida House Republican Caucus.
These new endorsements add to a list that already includes fifteen top Florida sheriffs, seventeen members of Florida’s congressional delegation, U.S. House Leadership, and leading Florida and national conservatives.
“Today’s poll reinforces the momentum Trump-endorsed Byron Donalds has carried since the start of our campaign,” said Ryan Smith, Chief Strategist for the Byron Donalds for Governor Campaign. “Floridians are ready to take our state to the next level with Donalds’ principled, conservative leadership.”
The campaign notes that Donalds’ leading position in polling and prominent endorsements mirror his already robust fundraising numbers, suggesting significant momentum heading into the election cycle.
READ: Florida Rep. Byron Donalds Rips Schumer Shutdown: “You Can’t Negotiate With Crazy”
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