Byron Donalds Kicks Off Florida Governor Run with Focus on Everglades, School Choice, and Insurance Reform

Naples Congressman Byron Donalds has officially entered the 2026 race for Florida governor, promising bold reforms and a hands-on approach to voter engagement.

In an exclusive interview with the Naples Daily News, Donalds, a Republican and vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump, laid out his policy priorities, ranging from environmental conservation to school choice and property insurance reform.

Protecting Florida’s Waterways
Donalds committed to completing the central Everglades restoration projects within 8–10 years. He emphasized the importance of proper water flow to protect Florida’s estuaries and meet the state’s growing water demands. He’s also open to exploring new technologies to support the project.

Expanding School Choice
A staunch advocate of educational options, Donalds believes in strengthening both public and alternative schools. He supports policies that provide parents with clear performance data across all school types so they can make the best choices for their children.

Reforming Healthcare & Insurance
Citing Florida’s large population of seniors and working families, Donalds wants to rework the state’s healthcare system using cost-effective, tech-driven solutions—funded, in part, by Florida’s budget surplus. He’s also calling for urgent reforms in the property insurance market, an area of growing concern for many Floridians.

Campaign Style: Face-to-Face, Not Zoom
Despite national GOP leadership discouraging in-person town halls, Donalds says he will continue to meet with voters face-to-face. “It’s my responsibility to show up and listen,” he said, noting that genuine dialogue can’t happen through screens alone.

Trump’s Endorsement
Donalds' campaign has momentum, thanks in large part to a high-profile endorsement from Donald Trump, who gave him a “complete and total endorsement” earlier this year and encouraged him to enter the race.

With policy priorities rooted in Southwest Florida’s most pressing issues and a campaign style focused on accessibility, Donalds is positioning himself as a candidate who blends conservative principles with a local, results-driven approach.