Byron Donalds holds 40-point lead in GOP Governor Primary

A new survey suggests Byron Donalds is approaching majority territory in Florida’s GOP gubernatorial contest, even before President Donald Trump’s name is mentioned.

The poll of likely Republican Primary voters shows Donalds at 44% on the initial ballot in a four-way field. His most formidable opponent is “unsure,” followed by James Fishback (5%), Lt. Gov. Jay Collins (4%) and former House Speaker Paul Renner (2%).

In a fragmented Primary, 44% support already represents a commanding advantage, and the breakdown of which voters are backing him only strengthens it.

The poll by American Promise, a group directed by Ryan Tyson, shows Donalds with 51% support among self-identified “very conservative” voters; 59% among voters who say they watch Fox News “a lot,” and 51% among heavy users of X.

Donalds also sits at 49% among high-propensity “3-of-3” Primary voters and 48% among voters over 55 — groups that are definitionally reliable and dominate Republican Primary turnout, respectively.

The findings suggest Donalds is consolidating the party’s base on his own, but pollsters also tested the impact of Trump’s endorsement. After voters are primed with the information, Donalds jumps 18 points to 62%.

A political committee supporting Donalds’ campaign has launched a seven-figure digital buy touting Trump’s support. More spots mentioning POTUS — from Friends of Byron Donalds PAC and others — are sure to follow as the August nominating contest draws nearer.

“The race for second may prove to be the most competitive aspect of this Republican primary, especially as the impact of President Trump’s endorsement continues to be undeniable,” the polling memo reads.

The survey likewise found GOP Primary voters still back the President a year into his second term, with 88% saying they approved of the job he is doing, including 70% who strongly approve.

Additionally, supporting Trump’s agenda is cited as the most important voting factor by 21% of respondents, while property taxes and homeowners insurance costs collectively rank as the top policy concern for roughly a third of voters.