Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has announced that he’s endorsing Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) for Florida governor.
In a statement first reported by Politico Playbook, Johnson said:
“Byron Donalds is a principled conservative leader who Floridians can trust as their next Governor.
“In Congress, Byron has been tenacious in standing up for Florida and President Trump’s America First agenda.
“I have no doubt he will bring that same fighting spirit with him as Governor, working every day to improve the lives of Florida families.
“My good friend Byron Donalds has my full support,” Johnson added.
The Sunshine State Republican thanked Johnson for his support.
In a post on X, Donalds called Johnson a “good friend.”
“From local Tea Party Activism to the State House & the halls of Congress to my candidacy for Governor of Florida, my fight for the Sunshine State has been unwavering,” Donalds added.
“Together, we are Making America Great Again.”
Thank you to my good friend Speaker @MikeJohnson for your support!
From local Tea Party Activism to the State House & the halls of Congress to my candidacy for Governor of Florida, my fight for the Sunshine State has been unwavering.
Together, we are Making America Great Again. pic.twitter.com/6kgnu8FHdD
— Byron Donalds (@ByronDonalds) April 3, 2025
The congressman announced his gubernatorial bid in February.
It came after President Donald Trump had already pledged to endorse him if he chose to run.
In a February Truth Social post, Trump declared:
“Byron Donalds would be a truly Great and Powerful Governor for Florida and, should he decide to run, will have my Complete and Total Endorsement.
“RUN, BYRON, RUN!”
Last month, Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL) endorsed Donalds’ gubernatorial bid.
Current Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is serving his second consecutive term, is not eligible to run again in 2026.
The Florida constitution stipulates:
“No person who has, or but for resignation would have, served as governor or acting governor for more than six years in two consecutive terms shall be elected governor for the succeeding term.”
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