Stephen A. Smith says Byron Donalds Might Convert Him to a Republican
The Florida Republican primary for governor, held on Tuesday, shows Rep. Byron Donalds as the clear front‑runner with a Trump endorsement, a sizable fundraising advantage and a polling average of 37 percent, according to reports from the primary site. Gov. Ron DeSantis has voiced displeasure with Donalds but has not endorsed any rival, leaving the race open among four leading candidates, including Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, businessman James Fishback and former House Speaker Paul Renner.
Voters at an Orlando polling location expressed irritation that Donalds refused to join a debate, though many still expect his victory. The campaign also received a public endorsement from rapper Nicki Minaj, who urged her followers to support Donalds and protect the "Florida Dream."
How this was covered
- Left-leaning outlets covered this 38h later
Why it matters
The outcome will determine the Republican nominee who could succeed term‑limited Gov. Ron DeSantis and shape Florida’s political direction.
How this story developed
- Aug 14 Poll Shows Democrat Gray Narrowly Closing Gap with Rep. Luna in Florida Race
- Aug 18 New poll shows Casey Askar holding a slim lead among multiple candidates in the 22nd District Republican primary.
- Aug 18 Florida's primary elections feature a historic Black Republican gubernatorial candidate and a crowded Democratic field, while both parties gauge Donald Trump's influence in the state.
- Aug 18 The poll also recorded Terri Hasdorff, Michael Thompson and Richard Evans receiving low single‑digit support.
- Aug 18 The primary has taken place, confirming Donalds’s lead and adding a high‑profile celebrity endorsement.
- Aug 18 Byron Donalds announced his run for governor, triggering a crowded primary for his congressional seat.
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