Byron Donalds makes history as Florida elects its first Black governor
PauseandPonderTV · Wed, 4 Nov 2026The Republican congressman beat Democrat David Jolly and will take over from term-limited Ron DeSantis.
Republican Byron Donalds has been elected governor of Florida, making him the first Black person to lead the US state.
The Associated Press called the race in his favour on Tuesday night, 3 November. Donalds, who represents a Southwest Florida district in the US House of Representatives, defeated Democrat David Jolly, himself a former Republican congressman who switched parties to run.
Donalds had the backing of President Donald Trump from the start of his campaign, and he secured the Republican nomination in August.
He will replace Governor Ron DeSantis, who is barred by term limits from seeking a third straight term.
His win was one of the brighter spots for Republicans on a night when the Democrats were projected to take control of both houses of Congress.
The results are unofficial until they are certified by the state.
Source: this report is based on reporting by WFTV, NBC News, NPR and CBS News.
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