Emerson released a new poll showing Trump-endorsed Byron Donalds continuing to hold a dominating lead in the Republican primary and general election for Florida Governor.
Donalds leads by more than 42 points against potential Republican candidates, 46% – 4% – 4% – 3%. Additionally, Donalds leads all age groups and holds majority support among voters over 60, at 54%.
“Byron Donalds is the clear favorite among Republicans to succeed Governor DeSantis,” Spencer Kimball, executive director of Emerson College Polling, said.
Donalds also leads both potential Democrat opponents in the general election, leading David Jolly by five points, 44%-39%, and Jerry Demings by nine points, 45%-36%.
In addition to President Trump’s endorsement, Donalds also earned the backing of Donald Trump, Jr., Charlie Kirk, Elon Musk, Senator Rick Scott, the majority of Florida sheriffs, U.S. House Leadership, 17 members of Florida’s congressional delegation, 75% of the Republican caucus in the Florida House, and other leading national conservatives.
Donalds’ dominating lead in polling against all potential challengers and prominent endorsements comes on the heels of a record-setting fundraising haul, bringing in more than $22 million in the first quarter of 2026, the largest-ever haul for a non-incumbent candidate in Florida history.
“The data speaks for itself: Byron Donalds is the America First conservative uniting Florida Republicans, and it’s not even close. Primary or general, Byron Donalds is dominating the competition. As Governor, he will make our state safer, more affordable, and build a future where all Floridians can achieve their dreams. Florida Republicans are ready, and Byron Donalds is the clear choice to lead them to victory in November.” – Ryan Smith, Chief Strategist for the Byron Donalds for Governor Campaign.
Read more about the poll here.
