Florida’s incoming legislative leaders handed a major boost to Congressman Byron Donalds’ gubernatorial campaign. Senate President-Designate Jim Boyd and House Speaker-Designate Sam Garrison formally endorsed Donalds in Tallahassee, signaling a consolidating front within the state’s Republican leadership ahead of the November election.
Boyd, who served alongside Donalds in the Florida House, cited the candidate’s track record on economic, education, and law enforcement initiatives as his primary reasons for backing the campaign.
“Byron Donalds is a staunch conservative, a problem-solver and a visionary leader who will make a great Governor of Florida, and I am proud to endorse him,” Boyd said. “Byron Donalds embodies the American Dream, and as Governor, I know he will work to give every Floridian the opportunity to thrive in the freest, safest and most prosperous state in the nation.”
Garrison emphasized party unity in his endorsement, framing Donalds as the candidate capable of continuing the political legacy of Florida’s recent chief executives.
“The time has come for Republicans across Florida to unite as we head into the November election,” Garrison said. “Today, I am proud to formally endorse Congressman and former House Member Byron Donalds for Governor of Florida.”
Garrison added that Florida’s Republican majority was built on the leadership of former Governors Jeb Bush and Rick Scott, alongside Governor Ron DeSantis. “Byron Donalds is ready to build on this legacy,” Garrison noted. “He will fight for a strong economy, safe streets, and quality schools while championing the conservative principles that built the Free State of Florida.”
Donalds welcomed the backing from the future leaders of the state legislature, noting that the endorsements reflect a broader momentum within the party.
“Jim Boyd and Sam Garrison are proven conservative leaders, and I’m honored to have them in my corner,” Donalds said. “Florida Republicans are united, energized, and ready to win in November. I look forward to working together to keep Florida the freest, safest and most prosperous state in the nation.”
The legislative leaders join a coalition of high-profile backers already supporting Donalds’ bid. According to campaign data, his current endorsements include a majority of Florida’s sheriffs, more than 75% of Republicans currently serving in the Florida House, Donald Trump, Donald Trump Jr., and Elon Musk.
Alongside the political endorsements, Donalds’ campaign team reported reaching a new fundraising milestone, pulling in a total of $90 million from more than 37,000 unique donors. Representatives for the campaign also stated that field staff and volunteers have successfully knocked on over 180,000 doors statewide to date.
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