Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., teased a potential bid for governor in 2026, signaling his interest during an appearance on HBO's "Real Time With Bill Maher" on Friday, The Hill reported.
"We'll see what happens," Donalds said when asked about the race to replace Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is term-limited and cannot seek reelection.
Donalds, a close ally of President Donald Trump, has reportedly approached Florida donors and made key political hires, including Trump's longtime pollster Tony Fabrizio.
Sources close to Donalds told The Hill last month that these moves suggest he is seriously weighing a campaign.
During the show, Maher asked whether Florida first lady Casey DeSantis might enter the race. Journalist Tara Palmeri redirected the question toward Donalds, prompting a noncommittal response.
"I mean, nobody's in the race right now," Donalds said.
Maher pressed further, asking if Donalds might run. The congressman shrugged and deferred to Palmeri, who cited recent polls showing Donalds, Casey DeSantis, and former Rep. Matt Gaetz as leading contenders.
Gaetz, who resigned from Congress amid controversy and later withdrew from consideration for Trump's attorney general, previously hinted at his interest in the governorship.
"We'll see what happens," Donalds reiterated.
According to sources who spoke with NBC News, Casey DeSantis is also reportedly considering a bid.
Rumors have circulated about Ron DeSantis' political future following his unsuccessful 2024 presidential run. Some speculated he might appoint himself to the U.S. Senate to replace Marco Rubio, who was confirmed as secretary of state. Instead, DeSantis named former Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody to fill the seat.
Jim Thomas ✉
Jim Thomas is a writer based in Indiana. He holds a bachelor's degree in Political Science, a law degree from U.I.C. Law School, and has practiced law for more than 20 years.
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