(Luis Cornelio, Headline USA) Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., will throw his hat into the ring for the Florida gubernatorial race in 2026, in a bid to succeed incumbent Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is term-limited.
Gaetz made the unofficial announcement at a Florida ceremony in Tallahassee, where he candidly shared his intentions with a group of attendees.
“There was a lot of talk about it at the reception last night, and Gaetz was telling people to basically expect him to be in,” a Florida Republican lobbyist told NBC News.
Gaetz acknowledged that he is being asked to run. “Many did encourage me to consider running for governor one day,” the Florida lawmaker said, before warning that he is focused on the 2024 presidential election. “But we have an outstanding governor who will be in that position through 2026.”
Gaetz added, “My only political focus right now is Trump 2024.”
Matt Gaetz is calling on Kevin McCarthy to subpoena Hunter Biden.
Matt is a Patriot.
RT if you think Matt Gaetz should be the next Governor of Florida. pic.twitter.com/HYvpyNADkp
— Trumps Nephew (@ForgiatoBlow47) September 19, 2023
The news of Gaetz’s candidacy has ignited speculation about the dynamics of the race, with some believing that his relationship with former President Donald Trump, a Florida resident and Republican powerhouse, could take him to the front.
“I think Gaetz is an instant front-runner and from what I hear he’s already won the Trump primary,” a second individual added.
Trump’s endorsement is expected to play a pivotal role, as it did in DeSantis’s gubernatorial campaign in 2018.
Some prominent conservatives took to Twitter to throw their support for Gaetz. “He has my full support if he does,” conservative attorney DC Draino said. “This state only wants the toughest and truest Republicans fighting on their behalf.”
Conservative musician Forgiato Blow chimed in, adding, “Matt is a Patriot. RT if you think Matt Gaetz should be the next Governor of Florida.”
Other Republicans, including Rep. Byron Donalds, Rep. Mike Waltz and state Attorney General Ashley Moody, are also contemplating their own bids for the governor’s office, reported NBC.
