Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds is positioned to carry forward the policies of outgoing Governor Ron DeSantis, according to political analyst Gianno Caldwell. Caldwell, founder of the Caldwell Institute for Public Safety, argues that Donalds offers the leadership Florida needs to maintain its conservative trajectory, particularly in public safety and economic matters.
Caldwell, who moved to Miami from Los Angeles in 2020, cited the differing responses to the COVID-19 pandemic as a catalyst for his relocation and his subsequent support for Donalds. He contrasted DeSantis' approach of resisting mandates and keeping schools open with what he described as politically motivated decisions by California officials. This perspective, Caldwell suggests, highlights the leadership that he believes Donalds would bring to the governor's office.
Donalds' platform emphasizes a zero-tolerance approach to public safety, advocating for full cooperation between state, local, and federal immigration authorities, and a statewide ban on sanctuary policies. Caldwell, whose brother was murdered in Chicago, views this stance as critical, referencing Chicago's long-standing sanctuary city status and its high murder rate.
In addition to public safety, Donalds has addressed economic concerns, particularly property insurance rates, which he believes can be reduced by up to 20 percent through regulatory reforms. Donalds, a former banker and finance professional, has served as the U.S. Representative for Florida's 19th Congressional District since 2021. He previously served in the Florida House of Representatives.
Donalds has received endorsements from various figures and organizations, including President Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and the Florida Police Chiefs Association. Stephen A. Smith, a self-identified lifelong Democrat, also offered public support, calling Donalds "the real deal."