Florida has elected its first Black governor, with Republican Congressman Byron Donalds projected to defeat his Democratic challenger in the 2026 gubernatorial election.
Donalds, a close ally of US President Donald Trump, is set to make history as the first African American to lead the southeastern US state, following a victory that further strengthens the Republican Party’s hold on Florida.
He will succeed outgoing Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, who was barred from seeking another term because of the state’s gubernatorial term limits.
Donalds, who has represented Florida in the US House of Representatives since 2021, emerged as the Republican candidate with strong backing from Trump. He was also considered a potential running mate for Trump during the 2024 presidential election.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Donalds moved to Florida to attend university before establishing himself in the state’s political landscape and eventually winning a seat in Congress.
His projected victory marks a significant milestone in Florida’s political history, making him the first Black politician elected to the state’s highest executive office.
The Republican’s success came despite a series of significant Democratic gains across the country in the 2026 midterm elections, with Democrats making historic advances in several traditionally Republican strongholds.
In Florida, Republican Senator Ashley Moody was also projected to retain her seat after defeating Democratic challenger Angie Nixon in the special election to fill the Senate position previously occupied by Marco Rubio.
Moody had been appointed to the Senate following Rubio’s departure from the chamber to become US Secretary of State.
Donalds’ election is particularly significant given Florida’s political history and the limited representation of Black Americans in the country’s governorships.
