Donalds Holds Front-Runner Status as Florida GOP Governor’s Race Sees Scramble for No. 2

Rep. Byron Donalds, backed by President Trump, leads Florida’s GOP gubernatorial primary with seven months to go, turning the contest into a race for second as DeSantis’ endorsement remains uncertain. High-profile rivals like Jay Collins and Paul Renner have entered the field but polls still show them in single digits, while hypothetical matchups with Florida’s first lady suggest Donalds would win decisively. Donalds’ fundraising (~$45 million), name ID, and a strong campaign team bolster his front-runner position, though opponents argue the race could tighten and scrutinize Donalds’ finances, his wife’s charter-school business, and past associations. DeSantis allies are divided on endorsements, with some suggesting Renner as a credible alternative; the dynamic remains fluid as campaigns eye late developments and potential new entrants into the race.