Exciting Early Momentum in Florida and Georgia Governor Races as Primaries Approach

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Experts in politics are closely watching the gubernatorial races in Florida and Georgia, noting that while both contests are highly competitive, the strategies for winning differ significantly between the two states.

As Florida and Georgia gear up for their 2026 governor elections, the absence of an incumbent has sparked national interest ahead of the primary elections.

Political analysts agree that both governor races are wide open, but they emphasize that Florida’s race features a leading candidate, whereas Georgia’s remains a fiercely contested battleground.

Florida’s Republican primary is bustling with candidates. However, seasoned political observer A.G. Gancarski identifies one standout contender who has distanced himself from the pack.

“In the Republican camp, Byron Donalds, a congressman from Naples, is leading the charge,” said Gancarski. “Polls indicate he’s nearing 50% support, and his fundraising efforts have amassed over $30 million, outpacing all other candidates combined.”

Gancarski says Donalds’ early advantage is fueled by strong fundraising, high name recognition, and an endorsement from President Donald Trump.

On the Democratic side, candidates are still working to consolidate support. Two of the most recognizable names are Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and former Congressman David Jolly.

Gancarski expects a familiar pattern in the Democratic primary.

“You’ll probably see a sort of demographic split among Democrats,” he said. “The Black Democrats more going for Demings and the white Democrats perhaps going for Jolly — that kind of split that we’ve seen traditionally, like 2018 when Andrew Gillum ran.

In Georgia, the race remains up in the air without a clear frontrunner.

Gancarski says the Peach State’s status as a swing state, and its more independent-leaning Republican voters, make the outcome far less predictable.

“Georgia’s election is going to be interesting to watch because Georgia Republicans are a little bit different than Florida Republicans,” Gancarski said. “They don’t necessarily walk in lockstep with the president.”

The Republican field includes several high-profile statewide leaders, including Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, and Attorney General Chris Carr all competing for the nomination.

On the Democratic side, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has emerged as an early front-runner, though analysts say the race will ultimately depend on primary turnout.

“In Georgia, it’s going to be more of a split thing,” Gancarski said. “You’re going to see who comes out of the primary.”

Even this early in the election cycle, Gancarski says campaign finances can offer valuable insight into who has staying power.

“I always look at fundraising reports because they come out every quarter now,” he said. “If a candidate isn’t really demonstrating momentum in terms of fundraising, they’re not going to get very far in terms of the electorate.”