"Florida Deserves Better: The GOP’s Leading Candidates Are Failing the People"
- lhpgop
- Apr 2
- 30 min read
Partisanship Over People: Florida’s Leadership Crossroads in 2026
"DeSantis warned that the state could easily revert back to being a swing state if it was not managed effectively, despite the massive surge in Republican registration there in recent years." Daily Wire
That very thought was the genesis of this article. Those of us that live in FLorida and have seen the trials and tribulations that the State has gone through to get to where it now is are necessarily frightened of what it can easily become once Desantis leaves office and Trump goes into retirement.
The vaccum that is already starting to gobble up what little talent that the State's Republican "candidate machine" has been able to churn out and there do not appear to be any multitude of people aspiring to codify the gains that have been made here, let alone to take those gains and more forward to make this State the actual "Free State of Florida" and not some punchline to political memes.
Case in point are the two possible candidates that we are to have for Governor. you can co host CPAC or Turning Point or any other circus that comes to town and we, the ciitzens, will not know you one bit better.
Florida’s 2026 gubernatorial race is shaping up as an internal Republican battle pitting Congressman Byron Donalds against First Lady Casey DeSantis. On the surface, both potential candidates claim to continue the conservative governance that has defined Florida in recent years. However, a closer critique reveals that neither Donalds nor Casey DeSantis is likely to effectively champion the real needs of Floridians. Instead, each appears tethered to partisan party interests – influenced by Republican establishment figures (often derided as “RINOs,” or Republicans in Name Only) and neo-conservative ideologues – rather than grounded in the state’s practical priorities. Moreover, both lack the proven political skill or independent power base needed to withstand aggressive Democratic challenges in a rapidly changing Florida. This essay examines their records, statements, and affiliations to argue that Florida deserves better. It also highlights alternative Republican (particularly MAGA-aligned) figures who might more credibly fulfill the leadership role with genuine policy clarity, grassroots support, and populist appeal.
"Washington, D.C. — Today, Campaign Legal Center (CLC), a nonpartisan group, filed a complaint with the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE), urging it to investigate Representative Byron Donalds of Florida for failing to disclose over 100 stock trades he made that totaled up to $1.6 million, which represents a violation of the Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge (STOCK) Act. This egregious violation emphasizes the urgent need for Congress to pass the bipartisan Ending Trading and Holdings in Congressional Stocks (ETHICS) Act to further limit violations of this nature." CLC 9/5/24
Byron Donalds: A Partisan Protégé Without an Independent Base
Byron Donalds, a U.S. Representative from Southwest Florida, has rapidly ascended in GOP ranks as a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump. Trump’s enthusiastic early endorsement of Donalds for governor in 2026 instantly crowned him the de facto frontrunner in the Republican primary
. Donalds formally launched his campaign in March 2025, leaning heavily on Trump’s backing and styling himself as the heir to Governor Ron DeSantis’s “Free State of Florida” legacy
. At his kickoff rally, Donalds reminded attendees – many sporting “Make America Great Again” hats – that “President Donald Trump has endorsed me” and promised to lead with “courage, conviction and common sense” in keeping Florida the “blueprint for what is possible in America”
. Such rhetoric underscores Donalds’ strategy: he is presenting himself as Trump’s hand-picked candidate and an extension of the current Republican administration in Florida.
This may, on the surface be "true". However, he is not the first candidate who rode the MAGA train into office and then turned out to be a disappointment. A cursory glance at his background may bring the narrative into question.
Alignment with Partisan Priorities: Donalds’ record and public statements suggest he prioritizes national Republican talking points, sometimes at the expense of nuance on local issues. Notably, he was among the 139 House Republicans who voted on January 6, 2021, to object to certification of the 2020 presidential election results
– a move aligning with the partisan effort to support Trump’s unfounded fraud claims, despite the divisiveness of that episode. He has unabashedly embraced the Trump-aligned wing of the party: during the prolonged House Speaker election in January 2023, Donalds sided with hardline conservatives. He even served briefly as their protest nominee for Speaker, highlighting his willingness to join intra-party rebellion against the establishment candidate Kevin McCarthy
. Although he eventually relented when concessions were made, this episode signaled Donalds’ identification with the GOP’s ideological faction over cooperation or legislative productivity.
Donalds’ speeches further illustrate an emphasis on ideology. In June 2024, at a GOP Black voter outreach event, he sparked controversy by expressing nostalgia for aspects of the Jim Crow era – a stunning remark that drew outrage. Donalds claimed that “during Jim Crow the Black family was together” and that more Black people “voted conservatively” back then" politico.com
(Ed. NOTE: see the bottom of the article for a more detailed desscription f what Donalds was trying to get at with his Jim Crow comment. Also, check out our other article on Kanye West as he makes a similar comparison https://www.southfloridaconservative.com/post/kanye)
. This historical distortion (ignoring that Jim Crow laws systematically disenfranchised Black voters and inflicted terror on Black communities
politico.com) suggests Donalds was pandering to partisan sentiments about “family values” and political loyalty rather than addressing the genuine historical and present needs of Black Floridians. He doubled down by framing criticism of his remarks as “gaslighting” by Democrats, indicating a reflex to meet policy critiques with partisan defensiveness
. Such statements, far from demonstrating thoughtful leadership, align with apartisan culture-war narrativethat risks alienating constituents who expect a governor to understand and improve current realities, not favor mythologized history.
Policy-wise, Donalds has positioned himself as a staunch conservative but has relatively few tangible legislative accomplishments. In Congress, where he has served since 2021, he has not authored any landmark bills for Florida. Instead, his prominence has come from media appearances and membership in the hard-right Freedom Caucus. When pressed on his contributions to Florida policy, Donalds often cites his voting record “to the right” of colleagues – for example, boasting that he opposed bipartisan gun control measures after the Parkland high school massacre, breaking even with many Florida Republicans who supported modest tightening of gun laws in its wake
. “I have proven time and again that I will defend your constitutional rights against any threats,” Donalds declared, pledging to keep Florida a “free state”
. While this absolutist stance on the Second Amendment might please the Republican base, it offers little in terms of constructive solutions for Floridians concerned with gun violence or public safety. It underscores how Donalds often defines his leadership byadherence to Republican orthodoxy(in this case, opposing any gun restrictions) rather than by proposing policies tailored to Florida’s welfare.
Crucially, Donalds’ rush to campaign for governor has drawn criticism from within his party for neglecting Florida’s immediate interests. Governor Ron DeSantis openly chastised Donalds for launching a gubernatorial bid so early, given Republicans’ slim majority in the U.S. House. DeSantis argued that Donalds should focus on delivering results in Washington for Florida, rather than stumping for his own promotion
. “He just hasn’t been a part of any of the victories that we’ve had here...he’s been in other states campaigning...then deliver results up there,” DeSantis said pointedly
. This remark highlighted that during DeSantis’s first term, Donalds was largely absent from Tallahassee’s policy wins – he served in the state legislature only through 2020, and his influence on Florida-specific successes was minimal. Indeed, Donalds’ tenure in the Florida House (2016–2020) overlapped with DeSantis’s governorship only briefly and without notable collaboration
. The implication is that Donalds is leveraging the work of others (the DeSantis administration’s record) as a springboard for his ambition, rather than earning a reputation through his own policy leadership for Floridians.
Questionable Representation of Constituents’ Needs: A stark example of Donalds seemingly privileging partisan strategy over constituent well-being is his stance on federal disaster aid. In late 2024, as Florida braced for major hurricanes, Congress considered emergency funding for FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund and the National Flood Insurance Program as part of a stopgap budget. Byron Donalds was one of a group of hardline Republicans who voted against this funding bill, even as a hurricane barreled toward Florida
. The bill in question passed with overwhelming bipartisan support to avert a government shutdown and authorize billions for hurricane relief, but Donalds joined 81 other Republicans in voting “nay”
. This vote came literally as Hurricane Helene was poised to strike Florida’s coast, prompting local headlines that Donalds chose to “close government [and] starve FEMA” on the eve of a disaster
. By opposing the spending measure – which included vital funds for Floridians recovering from storms – Donalds signaled that his commitment to a partisan fiscal stance (objecting to omnibus spending bills) trumped his responsiveness to his constituents’ immediate needs for help in a crisis. (Donalds later insisted he supports disaster aid and only opposed the legislative process, but the optics of the vote were widely criticized
Such actions raise doubts about whether, as governor, Donalds would prioritize protecting Floridians when it conflicts with party ideology. Would he, for instance, reject federal assistance or needed bipartisan compromises because they don’t align with a purist Republican line? Florida’s governor must often work across aisles (for example, to secure hurricane relief or infrastructure funds), and Donalds has shown little inclination for that if it means breaking with conservative hardliners.
Lack of Executive Experience and Local Focus: Donalds also lacks a developed power base in Florida politics independent of national patrons. Unlike many past governors, he has never run a large organization or won statewide office. His base is largely the national MAGA movement and deep-red Southwest Florida. While he talks about issues like Florida’s property insurance crisis, traffic congestion, and Everglades restoration – all genuine state concerns he listed in his campaign kickoff
– it remains unclear what solutions he brings beyond standard Republican prescriptions (such as tax cuts or deregulation). For instance, Donalds promises to “lower property insurance bills”
, a critical issue given Florida’s spiraling home insurance premiums, but his alignment with the insurance industry and lack of a detailed plan leave questions. Florida’s insurance crisis is partly due to increased catastrophic losses and a troubled insurance market – solving it requires policy nuance and willingness to stand up to powerful interests. Donalds has not demonstrated this kind of policy craftsmanship; rather, he is campaigning on broad strokes and loyalty to Trump.
In short, Byron Donalds exemplifies a partisan protégé: his rise is tied to fealty to Republican power-brokers (first Herman Cain’s platform, then Trump’s patronage) and to ideological purity in GOP talking points. This approach endears him to the party’s base, but it raises legitimate concerns about his effectiveness as governor.Will Donalds transcend partisan loyalty to address Florida’s complex needs?His one-note messaging and limited independent accomplishments suggest a potential governor more eager to please party leaders and base voters than to do the painstaking, pragmatic work of governing a diverse, populous state.
"In a much-quoted article last week, Politico described Casey DeSantis as her husband’s greatest asset and his greatest liability, with the emphasis on the latter. The Lady Macbeth analogy was attributed to Roger Stone, a longtime Trump supporter and opponent of DeSantis, who remarked in a Telegram post: “Have you ever noticed how much Ron DeSantis’ wife Casey is like Lady Macbeth?” — an agent, in other words, of her husband’s undoing. " Politico
Casey DeSantis: Political Heir Apparent or Partisan Surrogate?
Florida’s First Lady, Casey DeSantis, has emerged as another potential contender for governor – a prospect that blurs the line between dynasty and democracy. Casey DeSantis has never held elected office, yet her influence within the current administration is widely acknowledged. Often referred to half-jokingly as Florida’s “co-governor”
, she has been a close advisor and strategist to her husband, Governor Ron DeSantis. Indeed, insiders note that when it comes to Ron’s political career,“she’s the decider, the strategizer, the enforcer”
. From shaping campaign messaging to orchestrating staff decisions (such as the ouster of a top DeSantis aide, Susie Wiles, with whom Casey clashed
Casey has demonstrated sharp political instincts behind the scenes. But would those skills translate into effective governance in her own right? Or would a Casey DeSantis candidacy simply serve to further the ambitions of the Republican establishment – continuing Ron DeSantis’s partisan agenda without offering independent vision?
Adherence to the DeSantis/Party Agenda: Casey DeSantis’s public forays suggest she is deeply committed to the same partisan priorities that defined her husband’s tenure. During Ron DeSantis’s 2022 re-election and 2024 presidential bid, Casey became the polished face of his hardline platform. She notably launched the “Mamas for DeSantis” initiative, rallying conservative mothers around culture-war themes. In a 2023 promotional video for “Mamas for DeSantis,” Casey delivered a fiery monologue against progressive influences in schools, touting the “hardline rightwing agenda” her husband implemented in Florida – from banning certain diversity and inclusion programs to curtailing LGBTQ+ content in education
. “When you come after our kids, we fight back,” she declared, accusing liberals of exploiting children and vowing to“protect parents’ rights and the innocence of our children”
. These themes mirror the Republican Party’s national messaging and especially Ron DeSantis’s brand of combative conservatism. By amplifying them, Casey signaled that her approach in a leadership role would be to double down on partisan cultural battles (“woke” vs. parents’ rights, etc.) rather than to moderate or broaden the agenda.
Casey’s commitment to partisan causes was on vivid display when she took the stage at Republican events. Famously, at a campaign stop in Iowa during summer 2023, she wore a black leather jacket emblazoned with the slogan “Where Woke Goes to Die” along with an image of Florida’s outline
. This phrase – a signature rallying cry of Ron DeSantis – and Casey’s choice to sport it even in 85°F heat, demonstrated herfull embrace of the culture-war crusadeagainst “woke” ideology
. Such symbolism aligns her completely with the partisan base; it communicates that a vote for Casey would effectively be a vote for continuing Ron DeSantis’s confrontational stance toward progressive ideas. Indeed, she has styled herself as a guardian of his legacy. Ron DeSantis himself has touted Casey’s conservative bona fides, claiming“anything that we’ve accomplished, she’d be able to take to the next level”
. He even relayed the anecdote that the late Rush Limbaugh told himCasey would be an even better governor than Ron
However, this very closeness to the DeSantis agenda raises questions of independence. Casey DeSantis would come into a gubernatorial race not as a blank slate but as the standard-bearer of an existing administration’s priorities. Those priorities have been intensely partisan: under Governor DeSantis, Florida has been a laboratory for hard-right policy experiments (e.g., aggressive election-law changes, strict bans on abortion after 6 weeks, clashes with businesses like Disney over social issues). Casey has been a public cheerleader for all of these moves. For instance, she echoed support for laws restricting discussion of gender and sexuality in schools and the ban on DEI programs in universities, framing them as protecting children and “sanity” in society
. There is little indication she would depart from or critically evaluate any of these partisan policies. Rather, by her own admission, her political identity is tethered to Ron’s. She modestly claimed that enthusiasm for her potential run is really due to her “rockstar” husband’s performance as governor
– a rare moment of humility that nevertheless underscores thatshe views her role as continuing her husband’s work, not charting a new course.
Limited Policy Experience and Questionable Autonomy: Unlike Byron Donalds, Casey DeSantis cannot point to a voting record or legislative tenure; she has no formal political record aside from being Florida’s First Lady. In that capacity, she has taken on mainly ceremonial or charitable projects. For example, she led initiatives like Hope Florida (connecting families to charitable resources) and chaired the Florida Disaster Fund efforts after hurricanes. These efforts, while valuable in outreach, required very different skills from the governing that a head of the executive branch must do. They did not involve crafting legislation, managing agencies, or negotiating budgets. There is thus a gulf in experience: Casey has not had to balance competing stakeholder interests in policymaking or face the accountability of elected office.
Some of her initiatives even drew scrutiny for how funds were allocated. In the wake of 2022’s Hurricane Ian, the Florida Disaster Fund (which Casey helped lead) raised a staggering $63 million in private donations for relief. Questions arose about where that money went, with reports that politically connected organizations (allies of the Governor) received swift grants while other communities waited
. Such reports hint that even in her unofficial role, partisan or insider influence may have shaped decisions ostensibly about public need. If true, this feeds the concern that a Governor Casey DeSantis might steer resources toward friends and allies of the administration rather than equitably addressing needs on the ground – effectivelyblurring governance with favoritism. While not an elected politician, Casey has already been a political actor in distributing aid, and the perception (fair or not) that politics played a part suggests a propensity to prioritize loyalty networks.
Moreover, Casey’s power base is essentially inherited. Her strength in polls derives largely from name recognition and association with the DeSantis brand. Polling in early 2025 showed her with high favorability among Florida Republicans – 57% of Trump voters approved of Casey, far more than those who knew Byron Donalds (30% approval among Trump voters)
. Indeed, in a hypothetical GOP primary including her, Casey DeSantis led the pack (43% support in one FAU poll vs. 19% for Donalds)
. Such numbers reflect the goodwill Republicans feel toward the current Governor’s family and thedesire for continuity. However, popularity is not the same as proven leadership. Casey’s support might be broad but shallow, contingent on her husband’s standing. It’s noteworthy that when not explicitly offered as an option in a poll, many GOP voters coalesced around Donalds by default
. This suggests that her appeal, while strong, is tied to a hypothetical scenario (“if Casey runs”), and voters have yet to see her tested on the campaign trail or debate stage.
But, the times are changing and the Desantis message is more and more falling on deaf ears as was recently evidenced in the Governor vs. Legislature issue back in January of this year.
'In a stunning rebuke to DeSantis, who was once floated as the Republican successor to President Donald Trump, Florida lawmakers on Monday gaveled in a special session called by the governor to help carry out Trump’s aggressive immigration agenda — and then within minutes gaveled out again, summarily tossing out the governor’s proposals." PBS
Another concern is whether Casey DeSantis could effectively counter Democratic opposition or govern in a crisisgiven her untested mettle. Florida Democrats, though weakened in recent years, have signaled they would vigorously contest a Casey candidacy as a referendum on the DeSantis era. Already, Democratic commentators portray her as a proxy for her husband’s “extremist” policies and as an unelected figure trying to “inherit” power
. Facing such attacks requires not only conviction but political acumen distinct from her spouse’s. While Casey has shown communications savvy, it remains to be seen if she can, for example, debate policy details, improvise responses to unexpected events, or build coalitions beyond the GOP base. Her speeches thus far have been scripted and thematic, sticking to safe conservative talking points. Effective governors, however, often need to master wonkish complexities – from environmental permitting to healthcare regulation. On issues like Florida’s property insurance meltdown or managing the state’s massive budget, Casey would have to move from slogan to substance rapidly. Floridians have scant evidence of her capacity to do so.
Partisan Overreach vs. Florida’s Needs: Perhaps the most significant critique of a Casey DeSantis governorship is the risk of partisan overreach overshadowing pragmatic governance. Ron DeSantis’s tenure, which she helped craft, brought national attention for its ideological boldness, but not without cost. For example, the bitter feud with Walt Disney Co. over the so-called “Don’t Say Gay” law – a fight Casey reportedly encouraged as a stance against “woke” corporations – led to sustained litigation and uncertainty that potentially undermined business confidence in Florida. It’s fair to ask if Casey, as governor, would continue such combative approaches. In a recent speech sounding very much like a campaign preview, she warned that even with a Republican supermajority in the legislature and “the GOAT in the Governor’s office” (her term for Ron), Florida’s freedom was not secure on “autopilot”
. She inveighed against threats from “the left and special interests” as well as “Republican-lite squishes” who spend on “massive boondoggles” and don’t implement the people’s will
. This pointed rhetoric – implicitly aimed at any moderating forces in the GOP – signals that Casey would govern from a hardline stance, tolerating no deviation from conservative orthodoxy. Such an approach could alienate centrists and independents, and perhaps even some Republican legislators who might bristle at being labeled “squishes” for pragmatic compromises. In effect, Casey is positioning herself to outflank even other Republicans to the right,prioritizing ideological purity (and loyalty to her husband’s legacy) over coalition-building.
"Yes, Florida faces significant water quality issues, and development,particularly urban development and agricultural practices, are major contributors. These issues include nutrient pollution, stormwater runoff, and sewage contamination, leading to algal blooms, degraded water quality, and threats to public health and the environment. " (AI )
Florida’s needs, however, often require consensus and moderation. The state faces challenges – skyrocketing housing costs, strained infrastructure, climate-related threats to its coasts and water supply, an education system needing funding – that cannot be solved by ideology alone. A leader must sometimes push back on party donors or reconsider policies that aren’t delivering results. Would Casey do that? Her insistence that any wavering from the current path risks turning Florida “purple”
floridapolitics.com suggests she sees any course-correction as betrayal. That attitude might make for rousing speeches at conservative conferences, but it could impair governance. For instance, if Florida’s economic engine (tourism and investment) started suffering due to boycotts or negative publicity from controversial laws, a governor must decide whether to recalibrate those policies. A Governor Casey DeSantis, who owes her rise to doubling down on those very controversies, might lack the willingness to adjust, even if the state’s economy or reputation is at stake.
"The people under our system, like the king in a monarchy, never dies." Martin Van Buren
In summary, Casey DeSantis would bring to the governorship an unquestioning fidelity to the current partisan agenda and the political network built by her husband, without having demonstrated her own aptitude for independent decision-making on complex state issues. Her candidacy appears propelled by a desire to maintain a partisan legacy and power within the GOP rather than by a record of public service or grassroots demand for her leadership (beyond the DeSantis faithful). This raises reasonable doubt about whether she would truly represent all Florida citizens or simply the interests of the faction that elevated her. Florida’s constitution may not recognize dynastic succession, but a Casey DeSantis governorship would come close, essentially offering a third DeSantis term by proxy – with all the partisan fervor that entails, but with an even less experienced hand at the helm.
"Ron DeSantis' team is urging Florida lobbyists not to back Rep. Byron Donalds for governor
The pressure campaign comes as DeSantis' wife, Casey, considers jumping into the 2026 governor's race, as well."
Partisan Priorities vs. Florida’s Real Needs
The candidacies of Byron Donalds and Casey DeSantis both exemplify a broader problem: the elevation of partisan priorities over people’s needs. Each candidate, in their own way, seems more aligned with national Republican Party currents and intra-party power struggles than with the on-the-ground concerns of Floridians. This dynamic raises alarms about effective representation. A governor’s foremost charge is to improve the state’s welfare – economically, socially, and in terms of public safety – yet if a governor is beholden to party bosses, ideological litmus tests, or personal political benefactors, the public interest can be relegated to second place.
Several key issues highlight where partisan adherence might hamper responsiveness:
Political Independence: Neither Donalds nor Casey has demonstrated true political independence. Donalds owes his gubernatorial front-runner status almost entirely to Trump’s anointing. In fact, some supporters argue the primary “should be settled” because of Trump’s early endorsement
. Such sentiments reveal that Donalds might feel indebted to follow Trump’s direction – effectively making Mar-a-Lago a shadow influence over Florida’s governorship. Indeed, Donalds has already promised that Florida under his leadership would “support Trump’s agenda” on issues like immigration
. While alignment with a former President of the same party is not unusual, the degree of deference suggested here is. It implies Donalds could subordinate state priorities to help bolster a potential second Trump presidency (or Trump’s political endeavors generally). Floridians may well wonder: would Donalds be fighting for Florida, or for Trump? On the other hand, Casey DeSantis’s lack of independence is inherent – her political identity is virtually fused with Ron DeSantis’s platform and the GOP’s Tallahassee establishment. It is telling that Ron DeSantis openly said he would likely choose the 2026 GOP nominee to back, strongly hinting at his wife
, and even boasted that she’d outperform him as governor
. This suggests Casey’s candidacy could be driven by an inner circle of Republican power brokers to maintain their influence. In both cases, Floridians might get leaders who are constrained by loyalty – Donalds to Trump’s wing and Casey to DeSantis’s – rather than free to craft solutions purely with Florida’s interest in mind.
Policy Accomplishments and Gaps: An effective governor usually has a track record of policy engagement that signals how they might perform. Here, both candidates show a paucity of independent accomplishments. Donalds can point to few tangible policy wins beyond reliably voting the party line in Congress. In the state legislature, his tenure was undistinguished save for being a reliable conservative vote. Casey DeSantis’s accomplishments are in the realm of advocacy (e.g., fundraising for hurricane relief, promoting cancer awareness after her personal battle with breast cancer) rather than policymaking. The risk is that, lacking their own policy agendas born of experience, they would lean heavily on party orthodoxies and advisers. For example, on economic development: Florida has thrived in part due to pro-business policies, but also due to its unique assets (tourism, climate, no state income tax). If a recession hits or insurance costs drive people away, a governor needs more than talking points – they need adaptability. Donalds’s economic vision so far is mostly slogans (make Florida the “financial capital of the world”
, cut taxes, etc.) without concrete plans, other than continuing DeSantis’s approach. Casey likewise would presumably stick to her husband’s economic policies, which included low taxes but also heavy-handed fights like the one with Disney that jeopardized a major development project. Florida’s status as a “viable, sovereign, and economically strong state,” to use the user’s phrase, hinges on wise management of its economy and assertive defense of its interests. Sovereignty here might imply pushing back on federal impositions (as DeSantis did with pandemic rules), but it also means not becoming captive to national party infighting. If Donalds is using Florida to prove his loyalty to Trump’s immigration agenda, for instance, he might enact harsh measures against immigrants that satisfy a campaign pledge but hurt industries like agriculture and tourism which rely on immigrant labor. Similarly, if Casey is determined to prove herself more “DeSantis than DeSantis,” she might pursue ever more drastic versions of his policies (for example, further restrictions on public universities or local governments if deemed “woke”), potentially undermining Florida’s educational reputation or local autonomy in the process.
Fighting Democratic Strategies: Florida has trended Republican of late, but Democrats remain a force in certain regions and are actively strategizing to regain footing. A savvy Republican governor must be able to parry Democratic initiatives – whether they be policy proposals, legal challenges, or voter mobilization efforts. The concern is that Donalds and Casey might actually energize Democratic opposition without having the deft touch to counter it. Both are polarizing figures. Democrats would undoubtedly cast Donalds as an extremist, citing episodes like his Jim Crow remarks or his vote against federal funding, to mobilize their base and appeal to moderates. Casey DeSantis would similarly be portrayed as an ideologue and nepotism candidate, running on culture wars instead of policies. A more skilled or moderate Republican might deflate such attacks, but Donalds and Casey, as noted, tend to double down on partisanship, which could play into Democrats’ hands. Additionally, aggressive Democratic strategies in Florida include heavy voter registration drives (especially among youth and minorities), legal challenges to controversial GOP laws (some DeSantis-era laws have been tied up or struck down in courts), and even ballot initiatives (Florida voters have passed measures like minimum wage increases and medical marijuana that bypass the legislature). A governor must navigate these. Someone like Donalds, who prioritizes ideological purity, might find himself at odds with majority public opinion on certain issues (for instance, abortion restrictions or marijuana policy), leading to confrontations he could lose. Casey might have stronger political machinery from her husband’s allies, but her combative approach could similarly provoke backlash. In short, their partisan rigidity could make them less effective in adjusting to and neutralizing Democratic tactics. This could ironically weaken the Republican hold on Florida over time, the opposite of their intent.
Governance vs. Campaigning: Both Donalds and Casey sometimes give the impression that they are more interested in symbolic victories than in the nitty-gritty of governance. Donalds, for example, spends a notable amount of time on cable news or social media grandstanding on national issues. Casey, with her media background, excels at messaging and image crafting. While communication is an important skill, the worry is that they might conflate performative politics with actual governing. Floridians need solutions to tangible problems: hurricane rebuilding, insurance availability, improving schools, managing growth and traffic, protecting the Everglades, etc. These require working through budgets, mastering details, and often negotiating with lawmakers (including those of one’s own party who might have competing interests, such as rural vs. urban needs). An effective governor must sometimes rein in their base’s expectations to craft policies that work in practice. Will Donalds stand up to developers if Florida’s wetlands are at risk, or will he echo talking points about “job creators” and allow unchecked growth? Will Casey address the state’s rising cost of living with substantive housing initiatives, or default to blaming “woke Biden economics” without local action? Such questions highlight the tension between partisan narratives and pragmatic policy. A governor too engrossed in partisan battles might neglect the less glamorous work that actually improves constituents’ daily lives.
Ultimately, Florida’s status as a prosperous, sovereign state – one that charts its own course – has been built on a blend of low-tax, pro-business policies and competent administration of complex systems (from disaster response to tourism marketing). It requires consistent focus on outcomes, not just ideology. There is a legitimate concern that neither Byron Donalds nor Casey DeSantis has demonstrated the requisite focus on outcomes over ideology. Each seems driven to prove their conservative credentials above all. But as the past has shown, governors who govern solely for their base can mismanage crises (for example, ignoring expert advice during a disaster for political reasons) or miss opportunities to advance the state in non-partisan ways (such as infrastructure improvements or bipartisan economic initiatives).
In assessing these candidates, Floridians must ask: Do we want a governor who is a partisan warrior, or one who is a problem solver? The evidence suggests Donalds and Casey tilt strongly toward the former. That may thrill die-hard partisans in the short run, but it bodes poorly for Florida’s long-term governance. A “Free State of Florida” cannot thrive if its leadership is in lockstep with party bosses and unwilling to adapt to the state’s evolving needs. Both candidates embody, in different forms, the risk of Florida’s governor’s office becoming a prize in a partisan tug-of-war (Trump faction vs. DeSantis faction) rather than a position of service to Floridians of all stripes.
The Search for a Better Leader: Alternative Republican Candidates
If neither Byron Donalds nor Casey DeSantis seems likely to put Florida’s citizens above party agendas, what are the alternatives? Florida’s political bench does include other Republicans – some of them aligned with the MAGA (Make America Great Again) movement, others more traditional – who might better fulfill the role of a people-focused, effective governor. Any viable alternative should ideally possess clear policy positions, genuine grassroots connections, and a populist inclination to prioritize ordinary Floridians over elites. Below, we briefly evaluate a few names often floated in GOP circles:
Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL Panhandle) – Perhaps the most prominent MAGA firebrand in Florida after Trump and DeSantis, Gaetz has openly considered a run for governor
. He has built a national grassroots following among the right by railing against the Washington establishment, exemplified by his leadership in the movement to oust Speaker McCarthy in 2023. Gaetz’s appeal lies in his populist, combative style and ability to command media attention. He often touts policy clarity on issues important to the base – for instance, unapologetically opposing military interventions abroad (breaking with neo-conservatives) and attacking “wasteful” spending. Gaetz’s connections to his home constituency are strong; he’s popular in his district and has shown he can mobilize crowds. However, his viability statewide is uncertain. Gaetz is a polarizing figure with significant baggage: a House ethics investigation found credible accusations of inappropriate conduct (from alleged relationships with a minor to showing obscene photos to colleagues)
. Though he wasn’t charged with crimes, these reports have badly tarnished his image beyond his loyal base. Polls indicate Gaetz has high name recognition but deeply negative ratings among Florida voters overall (one satirical commentary noted his approval was “18%, less popular than palmetto bugs” in Florida
). If Gaetz were the nominee, Democrats would undoubtedly capitalize on his vulnerabilities. Thus, while Gaetz offers the populist passion and anti-RINO bona fides some Republicans crave, his ability to expand a coalition is in doubt. A Gaetz governorship might be as fiercely partisan as – or even more so than – a Donalds or Casey one, but with potentially greater scandal risk. Still, supporters argue that Gaetz’s fearlessness in confronting both Democrats and establishment Republicans is exactly the trait needed to “fight off aggressive Democratic strategies” and entrenched interests. He would likely keep Florida on the front lines of the culture wars and push the envelope on conservative policy, for better or worse.
Wilton Simpson – The current Florida Commissioner of Agriculture and former President of the Florida Senate represents a more establishment-savvy yet Trump-aligned option. Simpson has a long track record in state governance: he navigated budgets and legislation as a legislative leader. Importantly, he has shown a willingness to stand up to Gov. DeSantis at times, indicating a degree of independence. For example, Simpson publicly sparred with DeSantis over who was more loyal to Trump, pointedly saying “I’m not the one who opposed and ran against President Trump,” a jab referencing DeSantis’s presidential primary run
. This comment illustrates Simpson’s attempt to claim the Trump-aligned, anti-RINO mantle while also distancing himself from DeSantis’s personal ambitions. As Senate President, Simpson’s relationships with lawmakers and grasp of policy details could translate into effective governance – he knows the machinery of Florida’s government intimately. He also has grassroots connections in rural Florida, being a farmer and businessman from the Pasco County area. Simpson can tout legislative accomplishments such as expanding school choice and environmental funding (though ironically DeSantis vetoed some of his prized projects, like a Pasco County university cancer center, reportedly out of spite
). This indicates Simpson experienced the rough edges of DeSantis’s style and might position himself as a more collegial, consensus-oriented Republican who nonetheless holds conservative principles. In terms of populist appeal, Simpson is not as fiery as a Gaetz or Donalds; he’s more of a pragmatist. However, he carries less controversy and could potentially unify both pro-Trump voters and the traditional business-friendly GOP base. If Republicans seek a “Trumpier than thou” candidate without the drama, Simpson might fit the bill
. He would likely continue many of DeSantis’s policies (he’s generally pro-gun rights, anti-regulation, etc.), but perhaps with more focus on bread-and-butter issues like supporting agriculture, managing water resources, and avoiding unnecessary fights that scare off economic investment. Simpson’s major hurdle is lower name recognition (outside of political circles, many Floridians may not know him well) and the question of whether he can inspire the base in a primary against flashier opponents. Still, as a governor, his experience and network in Florida politics could enable more effective administration than either Donalds or Casey, especially in tackling issues like the insurance crisis where legislative know-how and industry negotiation are key.
Attorney General Ashley Moody – Though not explicitly mentioned in the user’s query, Ashley Moody has been another prominent Republican name in Florida. As the state’s Attorney General since 2019, she aligned closely with DeSantis on suing the Biden administration and bolstering law enforcement. Moody has the advantage of having won statewide office and having a law-and-order platform with clear policy positions (cracking down on trafficking, opioids, etc.). She also earned credibility by being a consistent conservative voice in legal battles (e.g., defending Florida’s election laws and abortion restrictions in court). If Moody were to run, she could argue she combines ideological commitment with a record of tangible action protecting Floridians’ safety and constitutional rights. She’s less overtly populist than some MAGA figures, but she did endorse Trump in 2024 and is seen as Trump-friendly. Her tone tends to be measured and professional, which might attract moderate conservatives, but it might not electrify the MAGA grassroots the way a Donalds or Gaetz would. Additionally, if she indeed won a U.S. Senate seat or pursued other paths (as a Florida Phoenix article alluded to her possibly becoming a U.S. Senator)
, she may not be in the gubernatorial mix. Nonetheless, Moody represents the kind of competence and seriousnessthat could refocus the administration on effective governance rather than perpetual campaigning. She also has the benefit of being outside the DeSantis vs. Trump feud – she’s friendly with both camps – which could unify the party. In a general election, her profile as a former judge and a mother might soften the GOP image compared to a more incendiary candidate.
Outsider or Grassroots Candidates: Beyond elected officials, some in the party’s grassroots yearn for a true outsider – someone not already entangled in political debts. During speculative conversations, names like Anthony Sabatini (a former state representative known for his ultra-MAGA stances and willingness to attack fellow Republicans as RINOs) get mentioned. Sabatini has a fervent grassroots following among the far-right base for his uncompromising positions (e.g., pushing constitutional carry for firearms, opposing COVID mandates vehemently). He would certainly prioritize populist red-meat issues and has been explicitly hostile to “establishment” Republicans. However, his appeal is narrow and he lost primary races, indicating limits to his viability. Another wild idea floated humorously in commentary is Donald Trump Jr., who is a Florida resident and embodies pure MAGA populism
. He’s well-connected and outspoken, but he has never served in public office and has shown no concrete interest in running for Florida governor. These outsider ideas reflect a desire for a candidate who owes nothing to the Tallahassee insiders or to Trump vs. DeSantis factionalism – someone who could authentically claim to represent “the people.” While the likelihood of a successful outsider campaign is low, such an entrant could influence the race by forcing discussions on certain issues (for instance, if a grassroots candidate campaigned on aggressive insurance reform or curbing urban developer influence, it could push the major candidates to address those topics more substantively).
Each of these alternatives has strengths and drawbacks, but importantly, each in theory could address some of the deficiencies seen in Donalds and Casey DeSantis. For example, a Simpson or Moody might bring governing competence and a focus on Florida-centric policy (thus better handling constituent needs), even if they lack the populist spark. A Gaetz or Sabatini would unquestionably keep Republican establishment “RINOs” at bay and prioritize a MAGA-style agenda with zeal, potentially energizing the base to new heights – though they might struggle to appeal beyond it.
The ideal candidate, some might argue, would blend these qualities: the policy savvy and independence to prioritize Florida’s interests (even if that means occasionally saying no to party leaders or powerful donors) and the grassroots trust that they will uphold core conservative values without selling out. Governor Ron DeSantis himself once embodied a balance of these traits in the eyes of many Floridians – he was seen as having both intellectual command of policy and a Trump-aligned conservative vision. However, as he shifted into a national role, opinions split. The next generation of Florida GOP leadership will similarly need to balance principle with pragmatism.
It is worth noting that all these Republican alternatives are, to varying degrees, MAGA-aligned or at least not openly antagonistic to Trump’s movement. This reflects the reality of Florida’s Republican electorate: to win the primary (and arguably the general election), a candidate must resonate with the populist, anti-establishment energy that has become core to the party’s identity. The question is whether they can do so while still effectively governing a complex state. It’s in that balance that neither Byron Donalds nor Casey DeSantis has yet proven themselves, opening the door for others to make the case that they are better suited to lead.
What now?
Florida stands at a pivotal moment as it looks toward the post-DeSantis era. The state’s trajectory in recent years – robust economic growth, an assertive assertion of state autonomy, and a sharp rightward policy turn – has earned both praise and criticism. What is clear is that maintaining Florida’s success and addressing its mounting challenges will require adept leadership. The examination of Congressman Byron Donalds and First Lady Casey DeSantis as potential gubernatorial candidates reveals significant shortcomings. Both appear more committed to partisan loyalty than to the broader, and often non-partisan, needs of Florida’s 22 million residents. Donalds is a gifted communicator of the MAGA message but has so far shown himself to be a “Trump first, Florida second” politician, tying his fortunes to a national figure and hardline ideology even when it conflicts with local interests (as seen in his FEMA funding vote)
. Casey DeSantis, while influential and admired in Republican circles, represents a continuation of one family’s grip on power with a platform centered on cultural conservatism and personal loyalty rather than any demonstrated record of public service to Floridians. Her role has been that of a partisan enforcer rallying the base, not a consensus-builder or policy expert.
Neither Donalds nor Casey has yet shown the political independence, depth of policy accomplishment, or unifying leadership that Floridians should expect from their governor. Instead, each comes with the risk of further entrenching divisive party-over-people governance: Donalds might govern in the mold of a surrogate for Trump’s agenda, and Casey as a surrogate for her husband’s agenda – when what Florida really needs is a governor for Florida’s agenda. That agenda includes tackling property insurance reform to keep homeownership attainable, managing natural disasters without political brinkmanship, investing in infrastructure and education to support a growing population, protecting the unique environment (beaches, Everglades) that underpins both quality of life and key industries, and ensuring public safety while respecting individual rights. Addressing these issues pragmatically will sometimes require crossing ideological lines or displeasing partisan patrons. It is fair to question whether either of the two leading aspirants has the inclination or ability to do that.
The op-ed has also identified alternative Republican figures – such as Matt Gaetz, Wilton Simpson, Ashley Moody, among others – each of whom brings a different mix of populist appeal and governing experience. None is without flaws, but their consideration underscores that Florida’s GOP has options beyond the anointed choices of rival party factions. The ideal Florida governor in 2026 should be someone who owes their allegiance not to Mar-a-Lago nor to the Governor’s Mansion’s current occupant, but to the people of Florida – someone who can take the state’s recent gains and build on them, not just through rhetoric but through results. Whether that person emerges from within the current field or from outside it, Republicans and all Floridians should insist on leadership defined by more than partisan litmus tests.
In the final analysis, governance is about delivering for citizens. Partisan theater has its place in rallies and cable news segments, but it does not fill an empty grocery store shelf when supply chains falter, nor does it rebuild a town flattened by a hurricane, nor lower the property insurance bill that strains a family’s budget. The next governor must be prepared to do those things. Neither Byron Donalds nor Casey DeSantis has convincingly made the case that they are prepared – or even inclined – to prioritize those concrete duties over the siren call of party politics. Florida can, and should, demand better. The state’s motto, “In God We Trust,” appears on the Great Seal of Florida which will hang in the next governor’s office; but perhaps a fitting addendum for voters to consider is, “In Governors We Trust – to serve the people, not just the party.” It will be up to Florida’s electorate to ensure that whoever takes up the mantle of leadership in 2027 lives up to that principle.
Sources:
Florida Phoenix – DeSantis disses Donalds, touts First Lady…
Florida Politics – Casey DeSantis warns ‘Republican-lite squishes’…
Associated Press – Trump-backed Byron Donalds makes his campaign debut…
POLITICO – Byron Donalds pitches himself…
POLITICO – Byron Donalds expresses nostalgia for Jim Crow era…
The Paradise Progressive – Byron Donalds votes to… starve FEMA…
Florida Phoenix – The 2026 governor’s race — is this the best…
Business Insider – Casey DeSantis wore a ‘Where Woke Goes to Die’ jacket…
The Guardian – Casey DeSantis ‘mamas’ video… hardline agenda…
Florida Phoenix – Commentary: The 2026 governor’s race… (on Gaetz, Simpson, etc.)
POLITICO – Donald Trump endorses Byron Donalds… (Truth Social/endorsement context)
Florida Politics – Did Hurricane Milton just turn FEMA funding… (context on GOP votes)
(via Paradise Progressive as cited above)
Axios – Rep. Byron Donalds boosted for speaker…
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Byron Donalds "misses Jim Crow"
Donalds was most probably referring to the explosion of black owned and operated businesses and enterprises. The resiliency of the family unit and the overarching theme that the black man/woman should strive to better there situation by working within their community to affect change.
So while Byron's observations were correct. Yes, there were more Black-owned businesses and a stronger appearance of family cohesion in some communities during the Jim Crow era — but that context is critical. Segregation forced Black people to create parallel institutions — schools, insurance companies, banks, hospitals, newspapers, restaurants, and more — because they were excluded from white-owned or integrated services.
These businesses weren’t born from economic freedom or favorable policies — they were a survival mechanism under legalized racial exclusion. And they were often targeted, underfunded, or destroyed (as in the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre).
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