Lt. Gov. Jay Collins Switches Sides, Endorses Byron Donalds for Florida Governor

Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, who spent the primary campaign launching aggressive attacks against U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, has now endorsed Donalds for governor of Florida. Collins said Donalds can continue the work needed to move the state forward and urged Republicans to unite behind the nominee in November. The shift follows Collins’ earlier accusations, including a 13-page dossier on Donalds’ associates and claims that Donalds lacked enthusiasm among voters.

He also warned that Donalds would struggle against the Democratic contender, former Rep. David Jolly, during the primary. Donalds welcomed the endorsement, suggesting it will strengthen his chances in the state’s deep-red counties and could make him the first Black governor if elected.