Byron Donalds' political committee has unveiled a pair of new television and digital advertisements as part of a sweeping $20 million media investment across Florida. The two spots, titled "Jack Up" and "Shot," are now running on cable and broadcast television as well as streaming platforms throughout the state. This spending represents the largest single media buy of the 2026 gubernatorial race.
In the "Jack Up" advertisement, Donalds positions himself alongside President Donald Trump and Governor Ron DeSantis regarding artificial intelligence data centers in Florida. He pledges to safeguard state ratepayers from potential utility rate increases and environmental damage that could result from AI data center development. The second spot, "Shot," focuses on the affordability challenges confronting Florida families. The ad opens with Donalds sharing a personal story about his mother, who worked two jobs in Brooklyn while still struggling to meet expenses. He describes how his move to Florida nearly three decades ago provided him with the opportunity to build a successful life.
Ryan Smith, who chairs the Friends of Byron Donalds political committee, emphasized that the candidate is committed to reducing costs for Florida residents across different age groups and income levels. According to Smith, the advertisements highlight Donalds' character and his priorities as a potential governor, including achieving lower costs, protecting consumers, and maintaining Florida as a place where people can pursue their ambitions. The media investment demonstrates Donalds' financial strength in the race, as he has consistently broken fundraising records throughout his campaign.
Beyond his advertising push, Donalds has built an extensive ground operation that has made contact with more than 175,000 voters through door-to-door canvassing. His campaign has also assembled significant support from prominent conservative figures and elected officials. He holds endorsements from President Trump, Donald Trump Jr., Elon Musk, Charlie Kirk, U.S. Senator Rick Scott, the majority of Florida's sheriffs, and numerous state legislators and conservative leaders. This combination of financial resources, grassroots organization, and high-profile backing positions Donalds as a dominant force in the Republican primary for the 2026 gubernatorial election.