FL Gov. Ron DeSantis is termed-limited out in 2026. President Trump has endorsed Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) who has expressed interest in running to replace DeSantis.
Meanwhile, DeSantis has let friends know he hopes to convince his wife Casey to be a candidate for the Republican nomination for governor. Politico writes it believes Trump basically can give the nomination to Donalds.
I am less certain than Politico that Trump's endorsement makes Donalds a sure thing. DeSantis has developed a strong "brand" in Florida. The popularity of his governing is, I believe, somewhat independent of his voters' fondness for Trump.
In addition, I would not be surprised if the Bradley effect reared its head in Florida. Rep. Donalds is black, most GOP primary voters are not, and FL is a southern state, at least in part.
