Donalds wins Florida governor's race, taking office as state's first Black chief executive

39% of Florida voters told pollsters they were worse off than two years ago, a sentiment that weighed on the state's economy heading into Tuesday's election. Despite that financial anxiety, Republican U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds defeated former U.S. Rep. David Jolly to become the state's first Black governor, according to an Associated Press race call.

Donalds will replace Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is leaving office due to term limits. The incoming governor enters the role as the favorite in most pre-election polls. He secured the Republican nomination with the endorsement of President Donald Trump, easing his path through a crowded primary field.

Campaign finance data showed Donalds held a substantial fundraising advantage over Jolly throughout the race. This financial edge coincided with a strategic focus on housing affordability. Donalds proposed streamlining permitting requirements to lower homebuilding costs. Polls identified the cost of living as the top concern for Florida residents, making the housing market a central theme of the general election.

Donalds first gained national attention in 2020. He challenged the legitimacy of former President Joe Biden's victory in that year's presidential election. The current election took place on Tuesday, marking a transition of power in Tallahassee.