Jerry Demings gets outpouring of support from Republicans and Democrats after news of cancer diagnosis

Many of Jerry Demings’ political allies and rivals are sending him messages of goodwill and healing after Demings announced he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer and is suspending his gubernatorial campaign.

Both Republicans and Democrats are giving an outpouring of support to the Orange County Mayor, a longtime Democrat.

— Republican U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, who is considered the Republican front-runner for Governor, wrote on X: “May the Lord watch over the Demings family, provide them with strength and comfort, and bless Jerry with a swift recovery.”

— Former U.S. Rep. David Jolly, who was facing Demings in the Democratic Primary, issued a statement: “Jerry has dedicated his life to public service, fighting with passion, mettle, and faith. I know he’ll bring that same spirit to this new chapter.”

— U.S. Rep Maxwell Frost, an Orlando Democrat, wrote on X: “Mayor Demings has always been a fighter for Orange County — always leading with love and resolve. I have no doubt he’ll face this challenge with the same strength. We are standing with him every step of the way.”

— Democrat state Sen. Shevrin Jones wrote on X: “He has spent a lifetime showing up for others, and now it’s our turn to show up for him.”

— Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, a Democrat, wrote on X: “A cancer diagnosis is a moment that reminds all of us what truly matters. Jerry is a man of extraordinary strength — strength he has demonstrated throughout his decades in law enforcement and public office. I have no doubt he will bring that same strength, and the deep love of his family and community, to this fight.”

— James Fishback, a Republican running for Governor, wrote on X: “Valeria and I are saddened to hear about Mayor Demings’ cancer diagnosis. We will be keeping him in our prayers throughout his treatment. I last saw Jerry backstage at an event in Orlando in January, and while we may not see eye to eye on everything, he is a good man who has served his community since 1981.”

— Florida GOP Chair Evan Power wrote on X: “Join me in praying for Jerry Demings and his family.”

— Orange County GOP Chair Erin Huntley wrote on X: “May God strengthen and comfort Mayor Demings, his treatment team, and all his caregivers during this challenging time.”

Gov. Ron DeSantis, whose administration once threatened to remove Demings from office to pressure him into signing an immigration agreement, did not put out an immediate statement on social media as the Demings news broke, with DeSantis commenting on X instead about California elections.