The Florida governor’s race is three years away, so why are so many candidates already stepping forward to say they plan to run for the seat?
There currently are four people rumored to be in the running to take over for Governor Ron DeSantis in 2026.
Those seriously considering a run include Democrat Anna Eskamani, Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, Congressmen Matt Gaetz and Byron Donalds are also rumored to run.
But is it too early to announce, and are voters already thinking about it?
Tatoamma Jeudy is a Lee County voter and believes it is time to start considering who may run. In fact, she’s hopeful that a woman may run for the seat.
“It would be interesting to see as a female. I’ve never seen it in my lifetime. So, I think it’s time,” Jeudy said.
Democratic State Representative Anna Eskamani of the Orlando area confirmed she was seriously considering a run.
“I term out in 2026. So, I have one more term in the Florida House, and I’m keeping all options open. Running for statewide is definitely on the table for me and my team,” Eskamani confirmed.
Lauren Acevedo is also a Lee County voter and said gender doesn’t matter to her.
“As long as what they want to do for our state is good and they genuinely want to do good for us,” she said.
Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis signaled he’s also considering a run for the state office, saying his family supports the idea.
“The governor plays a big part in what they do for our state,” Acevedo said.
Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz also signaled he may run.
Congressman Byron Donalds is rumored to be considering the run; however, his office did not respond when NBC2 asked directly Wednesday.
Political Consultant Dennis Pearlman said that while Gaetz and Donalds may have name recognition, he believes both men will need more to win.
“They’re going to have to sell to us what they’ve actually done on our behalf,” Pearlman explained.
He said it’s not too early for candidates to get their names out there early.
“In the law profession, they call it a trial balloon where they float out a defense and see what the pros and cons are. It’s the same in politics,” Pearlman explained.
Pros and cons many voters say they’ll be closely weighing before the 2026 election.