The race for Florida’s Governor’s Mansion shifted into high gear on Monday as Congressman Byron Donalds brought his “Defending the Florida Dream” tour to Coconut Creek.
The Naples Republican, who currently maintains a crushing lead in the polls, used the stop to pivot from national politics to a hyper-local agenda: promising to opt Florida out of daylight saving time, dismantle problematic homeowners associations (HOAs), and overhaul the state’s workforce pipeline.
The centerpiece of the visit was the unveiling of “LaunchPad,” an initiative designed to expand tuition-free apprenticeships for high-demand trades. Standing alongside representatives from Associated Builders and Contractors, Donalds argued that Florida must prioritize vocational success over traditional four-year degrees.
READ: Florida Rep. Byron Donalds Ignites Redistricting Fight To Counter Democrat Gains Up North
“Building Florida’s next generation… whether that’s building roads or building rockets, is essential for the future of our state,” Donalds said. He emphasized that the program would be industry-led rather than government-driven, aiming for a “zero-tuition outcome” to help young people enter the workforce without debt. Donalds linked the initiative to a broader social vision, stating that preparing young men to be providers is “critical” for the stability of Florida families.
Beyond education, Donalds took a firm stance on two long-simmering frustrations for Florida residents. On the issue of daylight saving time (DST), he signaled he is ready to stop moving the clocks twice a year, regardless of whether Congress acts.
“We can just act on our own. We don’t really need the other guys,” he told the audience. He also pledged to redo the state agency overseeing condo and homeowners associations, promising “true relief” for residents living under problematic boards.
The appearance also touched on the shifting landscape in Washington. Donalds confirmed he is prepared to vote for the expulsion of congressional colleagues if recommended by the Ethics Committee, specifically noting U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.
He also addressed national security and immigration, maintaining a “100% support” stance for the Trump administration’s deportation policies and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
READ: Gabbard Issues Criminal Referrals For Two Officials Involved In First Trump Impeachment
While state Democratic strategists suggested this week that independent voters are moving in their direction, the current numbers tell a different story.
The latest Emerson College poll shows Donalds with a massive 42-point lead in the Republican primary, sitting at 46% support while his closest rivals struggle at 4% or less. The poll also shows Donalds leading hypothetical general election matchups against David Jolly and Jerry Demings by five and nine points, respectively.
Donalds dismissed claims of a Democratic resurgence, noting that while the opposition may be motivated after recent losses, the Republican base remains committed to “making sure that Florida remains Florida.”
With a record $22.2 million raised in the first quarter of 2026 and a $67 million war chest, Donalds continues to consolidate support across the state, backed by a majority of Florida’s sheriffs and 75% of the Republican caucus in the Florida House.
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