Congressman and Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds (R-FL) announced endorsements from 12 additional sheriffs this week, bringing his total to 27, in his run for governor.
“Trump-endorsed Byron Donalds is a leader who understands what it takes to keep Florida safe," Walton County Sheriff Michael Adkinson wrote. "He’s unapologetically pro-law enforcement and has the backbone to stand up for what’s right."
“As a former President of the Florida Sheriffs Association, I’ve seen firsthand how critical it is to have a Governor who respects the men and women who wear the badge. Byron Donalds has always stood shoulder to shoulder with law enforcement, supporting the tools, training, and policies that keep our communities secure," Adkinson continued. "As Governor, I know Byron will back the blue, protect our families, and make sure Florida remains a place where law and order come first.”
Rep. Donalds earned the support of President Trump in February.
Baker County Sheriff Scotty Rhoden added, "I’ve spent more than 30 years serving the people of Baker County, from my early days as a corrections officer to deputy, narcotics investigator, and now as Sheriff. I’ve seen what real leadership looks like, and Byron Donalds has it."
“President Trump’s endorsement says it all: Byron is the proven conservative leader Florida needs. He’s never wavered in his support for law enforcement or the values that keep our communities safe," Rhoden continued. "As Governor, he’ll stand with the men and women on the front lines, defend our freedoms, and make sure Florida remains a state where law and order prevail. I’m proud to stand with Byron Donalds for Governor."
The ten other sheriffs endorsing Donalds include:
- Columbia County Sheriff Wallace Kitchings
- Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons
- Glades County Sheriff David Hardin
- Hamilton County Sheriff Brian Creech
- Highlands County Sheriff Paul Blackman
- Holmes County Sheriff John Tate
- Lake County Sheriff Peyton Grinnell
- Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt Hoffman
- Suwannee County Sheriff Sam St. John
- Washington County Sheriff Kevin Crews
Donalds also picked up 15 sheriffs' endorsements in September. More so, the announcements essentially position Donalds as the law and order candidate with nearly half the support in Florida.
The gubernatorial election is set for Nov. 3, 2026.
