Gubernatorial candidate and Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) has received the endorsement of House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA). Both Rep. Donalds and Speaker Johnson were a part of the 2017 Congressional freshman class. They also both ran for the open House Speakership once Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) was ousted from the position.
The Republican Conference eventually chose Johnson, but it doesn't appear there is any love lost between the two men, especially with this endorsement.
"Byron Donalds is a principled conservative leader who Floridians can trust as their next Governor," said Speaker Johnson, per Politico.
“In Congress, Byron has been tenacious in standing up for Florida and President Trump’s America First agenda. I have no doubt he will bring that same fighting spirit with him as governor, working every day to improve the lives of Florida families. My good friend Byron Donalds has my full support," said Speaker Johnson.
Moreover, Rep. Donalds acknowledged the endorsement and referred to Johnson as a "good friend" in Congress.
Thank you to my good friend Speaker @MikeJohnson for your support!
From local Tea Party Activism to the State House & the halls of Congress to my candidacy for Governor of Florida, my fight for the Sunshine State has been unwavering.
Together, we are Making America Great Again. pic.twitter.com/6kgnu8FHdD
— Byron Donalds (@ByronDonalds) April 3, 2025
"Thank you to my good friend Speaker Mike Johnson for your support! From local Tea Party Activism to the State House & the halls of Congress to my candidacy for Governor of Florida, my fight for the Sunshine State has been unwavering. Together, we are Making America Great Again," said Rep. Donalds.
After already receiving the most important endorsement in the nation — President Donald Trump's — this is perhaps the most important nod that Donalds could have received in the Republican Party. However, the main question is, will it resonate with Florida voters?
Will a more grassroots, anti-establishment (which ironically, both Trump and Johnson considered anti-establishment, and still are considered in some regards) campaign serve Florida's electorate better at the polls?
The State of Florida will find out in November of 2026, when the voters will make their voices heard in the Sunshine State.
