Lt. Gov. Jay Collins has launched a multi-million-dollar campaign ad this week highlighting his military service and conservative record alongside Gov. Ron DeSantis in his bid for Florida governor.
The 30-second ad, titled “Back in the Fight," will run on linear television, digital streaming, and social media as Lt. Gov. Collins looks to springboard his campaign against U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL), former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, and businessman James Fishback. The ad touts Collins, a retired Green Beret, as a fighter after being shot in the arm during a firefight in Afghanistan and as a fighter as lieutenant governor under Gov. DeSantis.
Gov. DeSantis appointed Collins as lieutenant governor in August 2025. Now, Lt. Gov. Collins is looking to build on DeSantis's legacy as the Republican nominee for governor in August.
“Floridians want a governor who will build on the success we’ve achieved over the past several years while continuing to fight for lower taxes, safer communities, and greater opportunity for every family,” Collins added in press statement. “This is about keeping Florida free, prosperous, and moving forward. I’m excited to continue taking our message directly to voters across our state.”
With Gov. DeSantis in focus, the ad highlights Lt. Gov. Collins backing DeSantis on constitutional carry, protecting parental rights, and stopping the Chinese Communist Pary from buying state land.
"Jay Collins is the Chuck Norris of Florida politics," DeSantis says in the ad about Collins. The comment was made when the governor appointed Collins as lieutenant governor at a press conference in Tampa.
Despite the high praise, DeSantis has not endorsed Collins as his successor. That is clearly not stopping Collins from promoting his work relationship with the governor, who remains popular in his final full year in office.
Notably, DeSantis has not endorsed anyone in the governor's race, including Rep. Donalds, who's backed by President Donald Trump. With DeSantis staying out of the fight, Collins may have to win this political battle on his own, at least for now.
"Our mission isn't finished," Collins says in the ad.
The Florida's primary will be held on August 18.
