Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., has thrown his support behind Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., in the race for Florida governor.
Scott, who served as Florida’s governor before Gov. Ron DeSantis, described Donalds as “a principled conservative” and a strong leader.
“I am proud to stand with President Trump and endorse Byron Donalds for Governor of Florida. Byron is a principled conservative who will lead with courage and conviction and fight on behalf of every Floridian,” Scott said in a statement.
He also highlighted their joint efforts, saying, “I’ve been proud to work with him on critical legislation to make flood insurance more affordable and help Floridians rebuild and recover from catastrophic hurricanes. And during my time as Governor, he was a critical partner in securing billions of dollars in tax relief for Florida families.”
Scott added that Donalds, as governor, would “strengthen our economy, fight for seniors and veterans, protect our communities, and above all, make Florida more affordable for every family.”
Donalds expressed his gratitude on social media.
“Thank you @ScottforFlorida for your support! You have been an incredible leader for our state and it’s been an honor to fight alongside you on Capitol Hill,” he posted on X. “As Governor, I look forward to working with you and President Trump to strengthen Florida and Make America Great Again.”
Donalds entered the gubernatorial race earlier this year following an endorsement from President Donald Trump.
“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!” Trump posted on Truth Social in February.
DeSantis, currently serving his second term, is term-limited and cannot run again in 2026. According to the Florida Constitution, “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.”
Scott and Trump have also endorsed Sen. Ashley Moody, R-Fla., in her bid to retain a Senate seat in an upcoming special election. Moody was appointed by DeSantis to replace Marco Rubio, who left the Senate early to serve as Trump’s secretary of state.
Moody is campaigning to serve the remainder of Rubio’s term.
