Trump-backed Congressman Byron Donalds has cruised to victory in Florida’s Republican gubernatorial primary, while Democratic socialist Angie Nixon pulled off a major upset in the state’s Democratic US Senate contest.
Donalds, a third-term congressman and former Florida state lawmaker, comfortably defeated a crowded Republican field as he seeks to succeed Governor Ron DeSantis.
Already a prominent figure in the Republican Party, Donalds entered the race with the backing of US President Donald Trump, who endorsed him even before he formally launched his campaign in February 2025.
Florida Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins finished second. A close DeSantis ally, Collins campaigned on a pledge to “protect the DeSantis legacy” and repeatedly highlighted his appointment by the governor, although DeSantis stopped short of endorsing him in the primary.
Donalds’ victory strengthens Trump’s influence over Florida Republican politics as the state prepares for a gubernatorial election without DeSantis on the ballot.
“Clear choice at the ballot”
On the Democratic side, state Representative Angie Nixon delivered one of the night’s biggest surprises, defeating retired Army Lieutenant Colonel Alex Vindman in the Democratic primary for Florida’s US Senate seat.
Nixon, a 42-year-old democratic socialist, overcame a huge fundraising disadvantage against Vindman, who entered the contest with a national profile and strong support from establishment donors.
Vindman outraised Nixon by roughly $16 million to $1 million during the primary campaign.
Despite that financial advantage, Nixon prevailed, handing another victory to the Democratic Party’s anti-establishment left and another setback to candidates favoured by the party’s traditional donor network.
Senior Democrats quickly rallied behind Nixon following her victory.
“Angie’s dedication to put working families first runs deep,” Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee chair Kirsten Gillibrand said in a joint statement, adding that “Florida will have a clear choice at the ballot” in November.
Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin also backed Nixon after the result.
“The DNC is ready to help elect Angie and work together to flip this seat, win the Senate majority, and deliver for all Floridians,” Martin said in a statement.
