DeSantis, Donalds Tied in Florida GOP Governor Poll

A University of North Florida poll shows Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis narrowly leading U.S. Representative Byron Donalds (32% to 29%) among registered Republican voters for the 2026 gubernatorial primary, though the margin is within the poll’s error range, making the race effectively tied. Donalds, backed by Donald Trump, holds a 15-point advantage among Republicans who voted in the last primary, indicating strength with likely primary voters. DeSantis benefits from greater name recognition, but 40% of Republicans remain unfamiliar with Donalds. The campaign landscape is complicated by the emergence of the Hope Florida Foundation scandal, which could affect DeSantis if it gains traction during the race. Other candidates, including Matt Gaetz, lag well behind, with many voters still undecided. Key voter concerns include property insurance, housing costs, and immigration enforcement, with strong approval for the current state policies on immigration.