A MAGA favorite running in the governor’s race has picked up a high-profile endorsement.
U.S. Sen. Rick Scott has formally endorsed U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds in Florida’s 2026 gubernatorial race.
The former two-term governor’s endorsement has further bolstered Donalds’ campaign to succeed Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is term-limited and cannot run again. DeSantis’ wife Casey has been floated as a candidate for governor and she led Donalds in a recent poll.
Donalds visited The Villages on July 25 and received an enthusiastic welcome from The Villages MAGA Club. Donalds also has the backing of President Trump.
In his endorsement, Scott described Donalds as a principled conservative.
“During my time as governor, he was a critical partner in securing billions of dollars in tax relief for Florida families,” Scott said. “As governor, Byron will strengthen our economy, fight for seniors and veterans, protect our communities, and above all, make Florida more affordable for every family.”