As Florida’s Republican primary for governor looms just 10 months away, the race is already ablaze—not with debates or policy proposals, but with dollars. While local coverage like The Daytona Beach Journal has touched on the basics, here’s what’s unfolding behind the scenes that you might not have read.
đź’° Byron Donalds: The Money Machine
U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds of Naples has emerged as the financial juggernaut of the GOP field. Since launching his campaign in February, Donalds has raised a staggering $31.5 million, including $9.2 million in the third quarter alone. His war chest dwarfs that of any other contender and is bolstered by a coveted endorsement from President Donald TrumpPalm Beach Post.
What’s less discussed? Much of Donalds’ haul comes from national donors and political action committees, signaling that his campaign is as much a national conservative movement as it is a Florida-focused bid.
🏛️ Other GOP Contenders: Quiet but Calculating
Former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner and Lt. Gov. Jay Collins are also in the mix, though their fundraising totals haven’t matched Donalds’ pace. While they haven’t made splashy headlines, insiders suggest they’re building donor networks quietly, waiting for the right moment to surge.
🧨 The Democratic Underdog
On the other side of the aisle, former U.S. Rep. David Jolly—now a Democrat—has raised just over $2 million. While that’s a fraction of Donalds’ total, Jolly’s campaign is banking on grassroots momentum and small-dollar donors. What’s not being emphasized? Jolly is currently the only major Democrat in the race, giving him a head start in shaping the party’s messageFlorida Politics.
🔍 What’s Missing from Local Coverage
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PAC Influence: The Journal hasn’t delved into how super PACs and dark money groups are shaping the early narrative.
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Trump’s Shadow: Donalds’ endorsement from Trump is more than symbolic—it’s a signal to national conservative donors that Florida is ground zero for the post-DeSantis GOP.
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Potential Shakeups: Rumors swirl about other high-profile Republicans entering the race, including state cabinet members and business leaders. The Journal has yet to explore these possibilities.
🗳️ The Bigger Picture
With Gov. Ron DeSantis term-limited, Florida’s governorship is up for grabs in a state that’s become a conservative stronghold. The GOP primary isn’t just a local contest—it’s a preview of the Republican Party’s future direction.
Stay tuned. The money chase is just the beginning.
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