NewsFlorida PoliticsMay 4, 2026Florida
Florida Governor Race Update: Polling and Political Developments
A new poll shows Congressman Byron Donalds leading the Republican primary for Florida Governor with 54% support. Meanwhile, Governor Ron DeSantis is exerting influence over a new congressional map during a special legislative session while navigating his political relationship with Donald Trump.
Read the full story at Florida PoliticsWhy It Matters
The outcome of the 2026 gubernatorial primary will determine the Republican nominee for Florida's highest office, while the new congressional map directly impacts the political representation of Florida residents in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Key Facts
- Byron Donalds holds 54% support among likely GOP primary voters for Governor.
- James Fishback polls at 9%, Jay Collins at 7%, and Paul Renner at 2%.
- The poll has a margin of error of 4.78%.
- Governor Ron DeSantis forced a special legislative session to pass a new congressional map.
- James Fishback faces a court-ordered deadline to produce financial documents and property locations, with potential penalties including jail time or federal prosecution.
- The primary election is scheduled for 106 days from the date of the report.
Who's Mentioned
personJay Collins“Lieutenant Governor and Republican candidate for Governor polling at 7%.”personJames Fishback“Investor and Republican candidate for Governor polling at 9%.”personPaul Renner“Former state House Speaker and Republican candidate for Governor polling at 2%.”personDonald Trump“Former President whose endorsement is cited as a factor in Donalds' polling grow”organizationFabrizio, Lee & Associates“Polling firm that conducted the survey.”organizationFoundation for Government Accountability“targeting 30,000 to 40,000 advancing in the Senate. The plan, influenced by the ”personByron Donalds“Republican candidate for Governor leading in recent polling.”organizationFriends of Byron Donalds“Political committee chaired by Ryan Smith.”personRon DeSantis“Current Governor of Florida influencing legislative redistricting.”personMark Walker“Judge presiding over a case involving James Fishback's financial disclosures.”