Florida Governor Race 2026: GOP Primary Heats Up with Collins, Donalds, Jolly; Intra-Party Dynamics Emerge
Key Questions
Who are the main candidates in the Florida GOP governor primary?
Jay Collins, Byron Donalds, and David Jolly are the key contenders in the August 18, 2026 primary.
How much fundraising have the Florida candidates reported?
Byron Donalds has raised $662K in matching funds while David Jolly has secured $1.3M.
What intra-party dynamics are emerging in the Florida race?
Democratic Chair Nikki Fried highlighted Donalds' refusal to debate and Collins' tactics, while Democrats focus on economic messaging to regain Latino voters.
The Florida GOP governor primary is intensifying. Jay Collins is courting GOP voters in Lakeland, leaning on military service and DeSantis connection but without an endorsement. Byron Donalds has Trump's backing and significant fundraising ($662K in matching funds). David Jolly received $1.3M in matching funds. New intra-party dynamics: Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried sarcastically thanked DeSantis' Lt. Governor for campaign material, highlighting Donalds' refusal to debate and Collins' aggressive tactics. The primary is August 18, 2026. Democrats are also organizing, with a recent Orlando fundraiser featuring Buttigieg, Jolly, Joseph, Nixon, and Vindman pushing economic messaging to win back Latino voters.