DeSantis Political Operation Works to Block Donalds’ Gubernatorial Bid
– As Florida Governor Ron DeSantis eyes potential future political moves, his political team is reportedly taking steps to influence the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial race. According to multiple sources, the DeSantis operation is actively discouraging Florida lobbyists from supporting Congressman Byron Donalds’ bid for the governorship.
The pressure campaign comes as speculation mounts regarding a potential run by Casey DeSantis, the governor’s wife, for the same office. A primary contest between Donalds and Casey DeSantis would likely be a significant event within the Florida Republican party, and could further highlight the ongoing political dynamic between DeSantis and former President Donald Trump, who has endorsed Donalds.
Seven individuals familiar with the effort, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that calls are being made to lobbyists throughout Tallahassee, urging them to withhold contributions from Donalds’ campaign. While these calls reportedly do not involve direct threats, sources describe them as clear signals of the governor’s preference.
“They are becoming a lot more aggressive as this thing progresses,” a veteran Republican lobbyist stated. “There are no threats or anything direct like that, but come on. When you get a call from the governor, or anyone around them, in this sort of context, it’s a message-sender.”
The timing of this effort coincides with the ongoing state legislative session, a critical period for lobbyists who rely on the governor’s signature to enact legislation favorable to their clients. This creates a potentially sensitive situation, as lobbyists navigate their professional obligations alongside the implicit pressure from the DeSantis team.
Congressman Donalds announced his candidacy last month and has already secured over $3 million in funding, a substantial portion of which originated from donors who previously supported President Trump. This fundraising success appears to be a key factor driving the DeSantis team’s efforts to curb further contributions to Donalds’ campaign.
The possibility of Casey DeSantis entering the race adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Should she decide to run, it would set up a high-profile GOP primary and continue the established political rivalry between Trump and DeSantis.
Governor DeSantis has been assembling his leadership team in preparation for his current term and potential future endeavors. He has combined political veterans with individuals from across the political spectrum in selecting top leadership recruits, according to the Florida Chamber of Commerce.
The Florida Freedom Fund, an organization dedicated to promoting conservative causes and candidates in the state, could play a role in the upcoming election cycle. The organization’s mission is to solicit and expend contributions to further these principles, and it remains to be seen how it will engage in the gubernatorial race.
As of , the situation remains fluid, with the potential for significant developments in the coming months. The outcome of this unfolding political maneuvering will likely have a substantial impact on the future leadership of Florida.
