Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins Launches 2026 Gubernatorial Bid

Florida’s Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins officially announced his candidacy for governor on Monday, aiming for the position in the upcoming 2026 election. Collins’ entry into the race positions him in a competitive Republican primary against U.S. Representative Byron Donalds, who has received the endorsement of former President Donald Trump.

In his announcement, Collins emphasized his military background, stating, “I’m running for Governor because leadership is forged under pressure, not in soundbites.” He highlighted his over 23 years of service in the United States military, particularly as a Green Beret, where he learned the importance of accountability and selfless service. This experience, he noted, has shaped his leadership philosophy and commitment to public trust.

Collins’ campaign is significant as it reflects a broader power struggle within the Republican Party, particularly as Governor Ron DeSantis has also positioned himself as a contender on the national stage. DeSantis, who ran for the presidency in 2024 against Trump, has been a key figure in shaping Florida’s political landscape. While speaking at a news conference in Broward County, DeSantis referred to Collins as “a good guy” and praised his military service. However, he refrained from offering an endorsement, stating, “If I get involved in the primary, you’ll know it. It’ll be at a time and place of my choosing.”

Collins’ campaign represents a notable challenge to Trump’s influence within the party. Many Republican insiders view this as a test of DeSantis’ political authority, especially since he has been rallying support for a successor amid a shifting political environment. Collins will need to build significant financial backing to compete effectively against Donalds, who has already raised over $35 million for his campaign.

While Collins has been hinting at a run for several weeks, conducting interviews across the state, he has focused primarily on his leadership style rather than the broader implications of his candidacy. “The last thing I want to do is make this about me,” he told local media earlier this year. “This is about we.”

Before entering politics, Collins served multiple tours as a Green Beret, sustaining injuries that resulted in the amputation of his left leg. Following his military service, he became chief programs officer at Operation BBQ Relief, a nonprofit organization that provides meals to first responders and communities affected by disasters.

Collins initially attempted to enter the congressional race for a seat held by Democrat Kathy Castor in Tampa, but later shifted to run for the state Senate with DeSantis’ endorsement. In Tallahassee, he emerged as a staunch ally of DeSantis, sponsoring key legislation, including a 2023 bill for permitless carry of concealed firearms and a 2024 bill banning offshore wind turbines in state waters.

DeSantis’ support has been crucial for Collins, as he has also endorsed Collins’ wife, Layla Collins, in her bid for the Hillsborough school board. Nevertheless, uncertainty looms over whether DeSantis will formally back Collins’ gubernatorial run. Speculation persists regarding potential contenders, including DeSantis’ wife and former House Speaker Paul Renner, who entered the race in September. DeSantis has publicly stated he would not support Renner, deeming his candidacy “ill-advised.”

With the Republican primary set for August 6, 2026, Collins now faces the challenge of garnering support from voters while navigating the complex dynamics of Florida’s political scene. The outcome of this primary could have significant implications for the Republican Party’s future direction and alliances. As his campaign develops, Collins will aim to prove his capability to lead and secure the trust of the electorate.