Florida Agricultural Commissioner Wilton Simpson announced his endorsement of Congressman and Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds (R-FL) by praising his conservative leadership for the agricultural community through a press statement this week.
"Byron Donalds is a trusted conservative who will always put Floridians first. Byron stands with our farmers, ranchers, and rural communities,” Simpson said. “He recognizes the importance of lowering costs, creating good jobs, protecting our land and water resources, and ensuring Florida families have access to fresh, healthy food. I look forward to working alongside Byron to keep Florida the best state in the country, and I am proud to endorse him for governor."
Agricultural Commissioner Simpson's endorsement is the latest from Florida leadership for Rep. Donalds in his bid for governor. Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, and Senate President-Designate Jim Boyd (R-Bradenton) and House Speaker-Designate Sam Garrison (R-Fleming Island) also endorsed Donalds this week.
Simpson has been agricultural commissioner since 2023. He is running for re-election this November.
Florida's agricultural commissioner includes several responsibilities, including food safety and forest management. The commissioner also helps with regulation and support and overseeing consumer services.
Rep. Donalds thanked Agricultural Commissioner Simpson for his endorsement.
"Wilton Simpson is a proven fighter for Florida agriculture, our rural communities, and the conservative values that make this state great — I'm honored to have his support," Donalds said. "He understands what it takes to keep our agricultural industry strong and our rural communities thriving. Together, we will keep Florida the freest, most prosperous state in the country."
Along with his support, Donalds has been endorsed by President Donald Trump, U.S. Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL), and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.). Donalds also has the backing of numerous Florida Republican Congressional and State leaders, a majority of Florida sheriffs, and several leadership organizations.
Donalds is in a Republican primary with former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, and businessman James Fishback.
The primary is Aug. 18.
