Matt Gaetz is contemplating an ambitious foray into Florida’s political landscape as he eyes the 2026 gubernatorial race.
At a Glance
- Matt Gaetz, former Congressman, considers running for Florida governor in 2026.
- Ron DeSantis, current governor, is limited by term restrictions, opening the 2026 race.
- Gaetz has faced accusations but denies allegations and is focusing on future political endeavors.
- Other figures such as Byron Donalds and Jason Pizzo explore their candidacies.
Gaetz Considers New Opportunities
Matt Gaetz, a notable former Congressman, is mulling a run for Florida governor. This development surfaces as Governor Ron DeSantis faces term limitations, creating a vacuum in the 2026 gubernatorial race. Gaetz is not new to the political arena; he once considered an attorney general position, but controversies revealed in a House Ethics Committee report made him step back. Now, despite these challenges, Gaetz remains influential, hosting a program on One America News Network.
Questions linger over Gaetz’s future given a troubling past. The House Ethics Committee accused him of multiple misconducts, including exchanging money for illicit interactions. However, Gaetz has resolutely denied these claims, stating, “Those lies have been told about me for years. They’ve never affected my ability to win elections.” Despite this backdrop, Gaetz is advancing his political ambitions and has hinted at a gubernatorial run.
I will be addressing this report tonight at 9pm est on @OANN https://t.co/Pc4YP2lLZ2
— Matt Gaetz (@mattgaetz) January 8, 2025
The Political Landscape and Potential Rivals
Florida’s political environment is undergoing a significant shift. Other players like Republican Representative Byron Donalds and Democratic state Senator Jason Pizzo are rumored to be scheming their strategies. The state is preparing for a transformative election cycle, with potential candidates such as former Pensacola Mayor Ashton Hayward and Miami Mayor Francis Suarez also in the mix. Moreover, State Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez and Attorney General Ashley Moody are considered possibilities, though they’ve yet to announce their intentions.
Despite the controversies, Gaetz remains focused on his vision for Florida. He emphasized crafting policies centered around consumer benefits, especially addressing the state’s pressing insurance issues. “I understand how to fix the insurance problem, and it’s not to hand the keys to the state over to the insurance industry,” Gaetz asserted. He’s contemplating this substantial career shift alongside his wife and is resorting to prayer for guidance.
Matt Gaetz, who formerly represented Florida in Congress as a Republican, said in a Tuesday interview with the Tampa Bay Times he is “starting” to think about campaigning for governor of the Sunshine State.https://t.co/VJo4MXcs3x
— News 12 (@wcti12) January 8, 2025
Future Prospects for Gaetz
Gaetz’s potential candidacy brings a mix of controversy and new political ideals to Florida’s dynamic scene. Even with significant past challenges, Gaetz is steering his career into new areas, showing resilience. His public efforts, such as engaging with personalized video messages on Cameo, highlight his varied interests and means to connect with the public. Gaetz, lauded for his assertive political approach and backing of Trump’s priorities, could shape Florida’s future significantly if he decides to run.
Gaetz is considering his options carefully, weighing them against past experiences and future ambitions. The 2026 gubernatorial race in Florida is set to be a defining contest, with Gaetz potentially at the forefront, championing a fresh, pro-consumer agenda.
Sources
2. Matt Gaetz Says He’s ‘Starting to Think About’ a New Run for Office
