Donalds Launches New Ads in Tight Florida Governor's Race

U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds is intensifying his gubernatorial campaign's presence on Florida's airwaves with a series of new advertisements as the race against Democrat David Jolly tightens. The Naples Republican seeks to maintain GOP control of the state.

Donalds' campaign released two new ads Tuesday, Oct. 6, highlighting endorsements from Gov. Ron DeSantis and former President Donald Trump. The previous day, Oct. 5, an ad featured Donalds' wife, Erika, discussing his political record.

The ad titled "Fighter" features Trump commending Donalds. The ad named "Never" targets Jolly on affordability. The 30-second spot mentions Donalds' vote for the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which temporarily reduced taxes on overtime, tips and Social Security. It asserts Jolly would increase taxes and insurance costs for Floridians.

"Byron Donalds will continue Governor DeSantis’ leadership and work to cut taxes, lower insurance bills, and make Florida more affordable," said Ryan Smith, Donalds' chief campaign strategist. "Byron Donalds is proud to have the endorsement of President Trump and Governor DeSantis, and he will fight side by side with them to keep the Left’s radical and costly agenda out of Florida."

The significant investment in these advertisements reflects Donalds' substantial campaign resources. As of Sept. 25, Donalds had $134.4 million, spending $91.7 million. Jolly had raised $16.7 million and spent $11.2 million.

Despite the financial disparity, recent polls indicate a narrowing race. A Change Research survey last month showed Jolly ahead. A St. Pete Polls survey indicated a tie. A Stetson University poll released two weeks ago showed Donalds leading Jolly 51-39.

Jolly responded with his own ad, calling Donalds a "liar" and refuting claims he would raise taxes, support socialism or endorse offshore oil drilling. Donalds' campaign previously highlighted Jolly's past work as a lobbyist supporting oil drilling plans after the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Jolly stated in his ad, "I don’t support a hurricane tax, taxes on your Social Security, oil drilling or socialism. Byron Donalds lies for the special interests that control him. I’ll fight for you."

Donalds continued his offensive Tuesday, Oct. 6, during a press conference announcing the Everglades Trust endorsement. He labeled Jolly a "fraud" and criticized him for not agreeing to a debate.

"He doesn’t have the courage of his convictions to stand on a podium next to me and explain his positions and his views to the people of Florida," Donalds said.