Byron Donalds
Coverage of Byron Donalds in the Nexus archive.
- Crowded Florida Race Puts Trump’s Clout to Test
The Florida's 19th Congressional District has a crowded Republican field seeking to replace Byron Donalds, who is running for governor. Former Trump administration official Catalina Lauf hopes for a boost from the president’s endorsement in this primary race. Campaign issues highlighted include affordability, insurance costs, and concerns about data centers.
- Mission Improbable: A onetime Republican is trying to prove Democrats can win in Florida
David Jolly, a Republican-turned-independent, is running for Florida governor amidst a strong political battle. His campaign involves addressing economic concerns while facing opposition from Rep. Byron Donalds regarding cultural issues like gender-affirming care. The race takes place in Florida, a state where the interests of various communities have historically determined election outcomes.
- Mission Improbable: A onetime Republican is trying to prove Democrats can win in Florida
David Jolly, a self-described political cynic, is running for Florida governor attempting to prove that Democrats can win despite recent Democratic collapse in the state. He campaigned through locations including The Villages and Leesburg before speaking to Democrats in Hillsborough County. His path faces competition from Byron Donalds, who has raised more money and accused Jolly of being out-of-touch regarding issues like gender-affirming care.
- Byron Donalds says he’ll remove local officials who indulge in ‘sanctuary’ policies
Byron Donalds stated that local officials who decide to create 'sanctuaries' by ignoring federal or state immigration law will be removed from office. This concern echoes past threats, where James Uthmeier reportedly threatened city officials in Florida over opposing full support of ICE’s efforts under 287(g) agreements. In response to these tensions, politicians like Eileen Higgins and Charlie Crist have signaled intentions to revisit or potentially rescind local participation in the agreement.
- Florida’s GOP primary for governor: Undignified. Unedifying. Flat-out godawful.
Florida’s Republican gubernatorial primary is described as chaotic, with Byron Donalds leading by a wide margin. Donalds faces scrutiny over his defense of a controversial Epstein-related artifact, spelling errors in campaign materials, and inconsistent policy stances on issues like data centers. Other candidates include Jay Collins and James Fishback, while Trump’s endorsement is highlighted as a significant advantage.
- Florida gubernatorial candidate James Fishback discusses policies, controversial comments
James Fishback, a Republican candidate for Florida governor, is promoting policies to eliminate property taxes and ban data centers. He has faced accusations of using antisemitic and racist language and was questioned about remarks involving the terms 'slave' and 'lynched' during an interview. Fishback trails in polls behind Congressman Byron Donalds but remains a top contender with 9% of the vote.
- Byron Donalds wants to ax ultra-processed foods in school
Byron Donalds, a gubernatorial candidate, is advocating for removing ultra-processed foods, artificial dyes, and additives from Florida school meals, echoing a rejected legislative proposal. Florida lawmakers previously declined a similar bill due to industry opposition and logistical concerns, but Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson supports addressing the issue.
- Florida judge refuses to boot Fishback from the ballot, won’t ‘decide the race’
A Florida judge refused to remove gubernatorial candidate James Fishback from the ballot, ruling he did not establish residency in Washington, D.C., and stating the court should not decide the election. The decision upholds Fishback's eligibility despite claims he violated Florida's seven-year residency requirement for governor.
- GOP rep: Trump ‘would be derelict in his duty’ if Iran had nuclear weapon, despite war’s unpopularity
GOP Rep. Byron Donalds defended President Trump's handling of the war with Iran, stating Trump would be derelict in his duty if Iran possessed a nuclear weapon, despite the unpopularity of war. Americans generally don't want another military conflict, according to Donalds.
- New education commissioner is an ‘outstanding choice,’ Erika Donalds says
Henry Mack was confirmed as Florida's next education commissioner, recommended by Gov. Ron DeSantis and praised by Erika Donalds, a school-choice advocate and wife of GOP gubernatorial frontrunner U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds. Mack previously served as U.S. Assistant Secretary of Labor and expressed commitment to academic excellence and collaboration with the state's education leadership.
- Trump-backed hopeful to succeed DeSantis unveils plan to protect local water, electricity from data centers
Byron Donalds, a Republican congressman running for Florida governor, announced legislation requiring data centers to source electricity and water from private providers to prevent utility cost increases. The proposal aligns with a voluntary initiative from President Trump and addresses concerns about AI infrastructure's impact on local resources and communities.
- Florida GOP lawmaker and governor candidate says AI data center legislation keeps utility costs down
Byron Donalds, a Florida GOP lawmaker and governor candidate, proposed legislation requiring AI data centers to source electricity and water from private providers to prevent utility cost increases. The proposal aligns with a voluntary Trump administration initiative and responds to public concerns about data center impacts on utility bills, communities, and the environment.
- Byron Donalds defends debate decision, outlines housing plan during Hialeah campaign stop
U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds campaigned in Hialeah, emphasizing public safety and housing affordability while defending his decision to avoid gubernatorial debates. He cited leading poll numbers and criticized opponents for 'grasping at straws,' also addressing a civil lawsuit against him as 'frivolous.'
- Lawsuit alleges Byron Donalds threatened Collier County school board member in 2022
Kelly Mason, a Collier County school board member, filed a lawsuit against Byron Donalds, alleging he threatened and intimidated her during a 2022 confrontation at a Naples grocery store. The lawsuit claims the incident caused emotional distress and fear for her safety, while Donalds' campaign dismissed it as a politically motivated attack.
- Federal court nixes challenge by Byron Donalds, GOP college groups to ’20 Census
A federal court dismissed a lawsuit challenging the 2020 Census methods, which was filed by Florida College Republican groups and later joined by gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds. The plaintiffs argued statistical methods like imputation led to an undercount in Florida, affecting congressional representation, but the court ruled the claims speculative and dismissed the case with prejudice.
- State Rep. Dotie Joseph joins Florida governor’s race
State Rep. Dotie Joseph has entered Florida's governor's race, citing a need for an additional Democratic option after Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings withdrew due to health reasons. Joseph, representing Florida's 108th House District, positions herself as a pragmatic Democrat capable of cross-party collaboration, challenging David Jolly, a former Republican and current Democratic frontrunner.
- Birthright citizenship ruling by U.S. Supreme Court splits Florida lawmakers
The U.S. Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump's executive order ending birthright citizenship, leading to mixed reactions from Florida lawmakers. Republican officials expressed disappointment and criticized the ruling, while Democrats celebrated it.
- At FL GOP summit, Republicans invoke fear of Democratic ‘socialists’ to inspire troops
Florida Republicans at the GOP summit used the election of Democratic Socialists of America members in New York and other states to rally their base ahead of the 2026 midterms. Speakers including Kat Cammack, Ashley Moody, and Blaise Ingoglia labeled Democrats as 'Communists,' 'anarchist psychos,' and 'bat shit crazy,' warning of a perceived socialist threat to American values.
- Florida Republicans take center stage at Sunshine State Showdown in Hard Rock Casino
Florida Republicans gathered at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino for the Sunshine State Showdown. The event featured Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL, District 19), who is leading the race for the Republican nomination for governor, along with Florida Sen. Rick Scott and other state leaders. The conference provided candidates with a platform to rally supporters and share their messages ahead of the election.
- Florida Republicans gather at Hard Rock Casino for annual Sunshine State Showdown
Florida Republicans gathered at the Hard Rock Casino for the annual Sunshine State Showdown, expressing confidence ahead of upcoming elections. Multiple candidates, including Byron Donalds endorsed by President Donald Trump, and high-profile figures like Attorney General James Uthmeier and U.S. Senators Ashley Moody and Rick Scott, participated. The event included debates among congressional candidates in District 25 and featured criticism between contenders.
- Following Trump’s lead, six Florida House Republicans voted against housing bill
Six Florida House Republicans opposed a bipartisan housing bill following President Trump's cancellation of a signing ceremony, as he demanded Congress prioritize the SAVE America Act. The SAVE Act requires proof of U.S. citizenship and photo ID for voting, and the six GOP members, including Anna Paulina Luna and Randy Fine, pledged to block legislation until the Senate approves it. The Senate has not passed the act due to insufficient support.
- Donalds and Jolly bicker over response to utility profitability
Florida gubernatorial candidates Byron Donalds and David Jolly clashed over proposals to cap electric utility returns on investment. Jolly supports capping ROI to the national average, while Donalds argues against it, claiming it would degrade service. The debate follows a $6.9 billion rate hike approved for Florida Power & Light.
- This Week in South Florida Full Episode: June 21, 2026
The latest episode of 'This Week in South Florida' featured host Glenna Milberg and guests Byron Donalds, Raquel Regalado, and Luisa Santos. The full episode is available for viewing at the top of the page.
- This Week in South Florida: Byron Donalds
With two months until the primary elections, U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds is the Republican front-runner for Florida governor, having received President Donald Trump's endorsement. He was interviewed by 'This Week in South Florida' host Glenna Milberg during his campaign in South Florida.
- ‘Not a charity’: Front-runner Donalds holds firm on strict GOP governor debate benchmarks
U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, a front-runner for the Republican gubernatorial nomination in Florida, requires candidates to meet three benchmarks (10% in polls, $10 million raised, 10,000 donors) for debate eligibility. He faces criticism from rival Jay Collins and former Governor Ron DeSantis, who argue the criteria are overly strict.
- Florida Republican gubernatorial primary deals with typo and ‘participation trophy’
Florida Republican gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds faced a typo on a sign for his 'Read to Succeed' initiative and a debate over 'participation trophy' remarks. The Republican Party of Florida requires candidates to meet 10% support, raise $10 million, and secure 10,000 donors to qualify for debates, with Donalds leading polls at 38.8%. Jay Collins, another candidate, responded to criticism by displaying his prosthetic leg as a 'participation trophy.'
- The Freedom Caucus is losing its stalwarts. Here’s who to watch next.
The House Freedom Caucus faces an uncertain future as several prominent members leave Congress, creating a leadership vacuum. New ultraconservative members are emerging as potential successors, while the group grapples with a possible Democratic House majority and a Republican Party evolving beyond President Donald Trump's influence.
- 2026 Florida governor’s race heats up as candidates make their case
The 2026 Florida governor's race is intensifying as Democratic candidates David Jolly and Gwen Graham emphasize bipartisan governance, while Republicans face internal debates over candidate qualifications. Key contenders include Byron Donalds, Jay Collins, and Paul Renner, with Donalds receiving an endorsement from President Donald Trump.
- ‘A Jolly Florida’: Jolly announces Gwen Graham as gubernatorial running mate
David Jolly announced Gwen Graham as his running mate for the gubernatorial campaign on June 10, 2026. The pair emphasized bipartisan collaboration and highlighted campaign finance disparities with Republican rival Byron Donalds, who is backed by Trump.
- Poll shows 20% of Florida Hispanics who voted for Trump in 2024 say they wouldn’t do it again
A poll of 500 Florida Hispanic voters shows 20% of those who voted for Trump in 2024 would not do so again, with 51% disapproving of his performance. Republican candidates lead in the gubernatorial and Senate races, but concerns about congressional oversight are high. National comparisons highlight Florida's unique Republican support among Latino voters.
- Donalds defends anti-weaponization fund
Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) defended the Department of Justice’s new 'anti-weaponization fund' on Sunday, comparing it to a similar Obama-era IRS scandal involving lawsuits and settlements with groups.
- WATCH: Republicans shrug off fears that Trump targeting GOP incumbents could backfire on agenda
Republican lawmakers dismissed concerns that President Trump targeting GOP incumbents, like Rep. Thomas Massie, could harm the party's agenda. Despite Massie's primary loss due to Trump's criticism, Republicans emphasized unity to advance their slim House majority. Lawmakers defended Trump's endorsements, acknowledging internal tensions but prioritizing legislative progress.
- House Republicans rip into Senate for delaying immigration reconciliation package: 'I'm very frustrated'
House Republicans are frustrated with the Senate GOP's decision to delay voting on an immigration enforcement budget reconciliation package. The disagreement centers on funding for ICE and Border Patrol, as well as disputes over an 'Anti-Weaponization Fund' established by the Trump administration's Justice Department.
- House Republicans rip into Senate for delaying immigration reconciliation package: 'I'm very frustrated'
House Republicans express frustration with the Senate GOP's decision to delay voting on an immigration enforcement budget reconciliation package. The disagreement centers on funding for ICE and Border Patrol, with additional tensions over the Justice Department's newly announced Anti-Weaponization Fund and whether it should include guardrails excluding January 6 rioters.
- GOP frontrunner for governor says Florida needs growth management
Rep. Byron Donalds, the GOP frontrunner for governor, announced support for growth management in Florida to address infrastructure and quality of life challenges. The Legislature previously blocked local governments from restricting development in areas devastated by Hurricane Ian. Experts remain skeptical about the sincerity of Donalds' commitment to growth management.
- Senators think they hold the key to a college athletics bill demanded by Trump
Senators Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell are leading negotiations on a college athletics bill to regulate athlete compensation through name, image, and likeness (NIL) rules, after House efforts failed. The bipartisan effort aims to create a unified federal framework to replace conflicting state laws, with pressure from President Trump and sports officials to pass legislation.
- DeSantis' redistricting fight gets major boost from his potential GOP successor: 'Doing the right thing'
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis unveiled a congressional map potentially securing four additional Republican seats, supported by Rep. Byron Donalds. Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and California Gov. Gavin Newsom, criticized the move, warning it could backfire. Redistricting battles are ongoing nationwide as both parties vie for House control.
- DeSantis' redistricting fight gets major boost from his potential GOP successor: 'Doing the right thing'
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis introduced a congressional redistricting map that could secure four additional Republican seats, supported by Rep. Byron Donalds. Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and California Gov. Gavin Newsom, criticize the move as partisan gerrymandering, while Republicans argue similar strategies have been used historically. Redistricting battles are ongoing in multiple states ahead of the 2026 and 2030 elections.
- Byron Donalds cracks down on persistent border blind spot leaving US vulnerable to overstays
Florida Republican Rep. Byron Donalds introduced the Reform Immigration Through Biometrics Act, mandating biometric tracking of all U.S. entries and exits to address visa overstays and fraudulent documents. The bill aims to ensure full implementation of the system, which has been incomplete since its 2010s inception, and holds the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) accountable for oversight.
- Byron Donalds cracks down on persistent border blind spot leaving US vulnerable to overstays
Rep. Byron Donalds introduced the Reform Immigration Through Biometrics Act to mandate biometric tracking of all U.S. entries and exits, aiming to address visa overstays and documentation fraud. The bill seeks to enforce a system first proposed in 2004 by the 9/11 Commission, which previous administrations failed to fully implement.