MAGA Republican gives clear signal of plans to run for Florida governor in 2026: report

A Florida congressman and loyalist to President-elect Donald Trump is signaling his move to run for governor, according to a report.

Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) has told possible donors and political big-wigs in the state that he will run for governor next year to replace term-limited Gov. Ron DeSantis, NBC News reported Wednesday night.

The report noted Donalds has been rumored to make a run for the position for some time now, with those rumors "ramped up in recent days."

Donalds reportedly made similar remarks at a GOP meeting in Orlando over the weekend, as well as a recent meeting in Tallahassee.

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“He was in town [Tallahassee] meeting with all the folks you need to meet with. He told them he is in,” a source who met with Donalds told the outlet. “It’s the steps any candidate takes as they prepare to run for governor.”

When asked for comment Donalds didn't deny them, but said he's focused on "helping President Trump pass his America First Agenda."

"Florida will proudly lead the way," he told NBC News.

Donalds could face some intriguing competition — disgraced former Rep. Matt Gaetz has also been linked to a possible bid for governor despite being accused of engaging in sexual misconduct with an underage girl, bribery and other allegations, all of which he has vehemently denied.

"Florida needs a Governor who can break the control insurance companies have over Tallahassee. I can do that, so it’s something Ginger and I are considering," Gaetz told NBC News in a message.