Republican U.S. Senator Ashley Moody and Congressman Byron Donalds, the leading contenders for Florida's top statewide offices, have announced a coordinated campaign strategy featuring joint appearances and mutual endorsements. The campaigns plan grassroots events designed to consolidate Republican support before the November general election. Both candidates will emphasize public safety, education, economic growth, and senior issues while contrasting their records with Democratic opponents. "Floridians deserve strong, principled leadership that puts our state first. I am proud to endorse my friend Byron Donalds," Moody said. "He is a proven conservative leader who will fight to make Florida safer, healthier, and more affordable as Governor."
Donalds reciprocated the endorsement, praising Moody's record. "Florida is fortunate to have a fighter like Sen. Ashley Moody representing Floridians," he said. "Her proven leadership as Attorney General and now as a United States Senator makes her the right choice to continue serving our state. I am proud to endorse Sen. Ashley Moody for re-election to the United States Senate." The Naples congressman entered the governor's race in early 2025 with backing from former President Donald Trump. His campaign raised $22.2 million in the first quarter, a record for a non-incumbent gubernatorial candidate in Florida, and has now accumulated over $67 million total. If elected, Donalds would become Florida's first Black governor. He faces primary competition from Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins, former House Speaker Paul Renner, and businessman James Fishback. Donalds has secured endorsements from groups including the Florida Farm Bureau's FarmPAC and multiple legislative leaders.
Moody, a fifth-generation Floridian and former federal prosecutor, previously served six years as attorney general, during which she secured billions in opioid settlements for the state. Governor Ron DeSantis appointed her to the U.S. Senate seat vacated when Marco Rubio became Secretary of State. She was sworn in on January 21, 2025, and received Trump's endorsement. Moody has qualified for the special election to complete the remaining two years of Rubio's term.
The Democratic field remains in flux. Former Republican Congressman David Jolly leads the gubernatorial field with former U.S. Representative Gwen Graham as his running mate. The Democratic Senate race remains unsettled following teacher Josh Weil's withdrawal due to a medical issue. The primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, August 18, with voter registration closing on July 20. The general election follows on Tuesday, November 3, with registration closing on October 5.