Byron Donalds becomes Florida's first Black governor, ending Ron DeSantis era

Byron Donalds is projected to win the governor's race in Florida.

The Associated Press called the state for the U.S. Congressman on Tuesday night. He secured 50.3 percent of the total votes, defeating Democratic challenger David Jolly, who received 48.8 percent.

Donalds, a Republican, will succeed Ron DeSantis as the state's chief executive. He will be the first Black governor in Florida's history. His running mate, former State Senator Bryan Avila, is projected to win the lieutenant governor's seat. The duo campaigned on a platform to continue the policy legacy of the current administration while addressing specific economic concerns for residents.

President Donald Trump endorsed Donalds more than a year before the election. The endorsement helped shape the Republican primary by limiting the field of challengers. During the general campaign, Donalds maintained a distinct distance from the President while seeking to appeal to moderate voters.

Donalds delivered his victory speech in Hollywood, Florida, on Tuesday evening. He acknowledged receiving two phone calls after the polls closed. One call was from Jolly to concede the race, and the other was from President Trump. Donalds also praised his opponent for a spirited contest.

"I am humbled and grateful beyond measure," Donalds wrote on social media. "As your Governor, I will give you everything I have. We are going to make life in Florida more affordable. We are going to keep our streets safe. We are going to invest in our young people so that they can attain the Florida Dream that all of us love so dearly."

In his address, Donalds stated his administration will prioritize lowering insurance premiums and protecting the environment. He noted that many voters are struggling to balance their monthly budgets. "We have people who are looking at their bank accounts, not month in, month out, day in, day out trying to figure out how they're going to make ends meet," Donalds said. "And my mission as Florida's next governor is to make sure that they can build a great life here in the great state of Florida."

Voting patterns showed a shift on election day. While Democratic turnout was strong during the early voting period, a high volume of votes cast on Tuesday propelled Donalds to the top of the ballot. The state's election officials will finalize the official counts in the coming days.