Former Rep. Matt Gaetz Mulls Florida Governor Run Amid GOP Primary Tensions

The 2026 Florida gubernatorial race is shaping up to be highly competitive, with former Rep. Matt Gaetz considering a run despite past sexual misconduct allegations and a nomination for Trump’s attorney general position falling through. Currently, Rep. Byron Donalds is the only official candidate, having secured President Donald Trump’s endorsement, but rumored contenders include Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis and former Democratic congressman David Jolly. Gaetz has publicly supported Casey DeSantis yet remains a potential candidate himself, viewing a three-way Republican primary as an opportunity to win the nomination with around 30% of the vote in this GOP-leaning state. Trump’s endorsement of Donalds has not deterred others from entering the race, creating uncertainty and strategic maneuvering within the party. Gaetz has positioned himself as a pro-consumer candidate who aims to address Florida’s insurance crisis, while GOP insiders express concern over his potential to disrupt the primary dynamics. The race remains unsettled as various candidates weigh their options and political alliances continue to evolve.