Byron Donalds picks Florida Sen. Bryan Avila as running mate for governor

MIAMI, Fla. (WINK) — Republican gubernatorial nominee Byron Donalds announced Florida State Sen. Bryan Avila as his running mate for lieutenant governor on Tuesday.

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Donalds said Avila's values align with his own. Avila is the son of Cuban exiles who fled communism for freedom.

"Bryan Avila is a proven conservative, a dedicated public servant, a military officer, and most importantly, a husband and father who understands exactly what is at stake for Florida families," Donalds said. "The son of Cuban exiles who fled communism for freedom, Bryan understands that the Florida Dream is worth fighting for."

Donalds said Avila has stood with Gov. DeSantis to defend freedoms, fought to lower costs for hardworking families and answered the call to serve the state and country in uniform.

Born and raised in Hialeah, Avila is the son of Adrian and Rosa Maria Avila, who fled communist Cuba in search of political freedom, economic opportunity and a better life for their family. Their experience shaped Avila's unwavering opposition to socialism and commitment to protecting the freedoms and opportunities that have made Florida a beacon for families across America and around the world.

"I am deeply honored to join Byron Donalds and accept the Republican nomination for Lieutenant Governor," Avila said. "My parents escaped communist Cuba because they believed America offered something socialism never could — freedom and the opportunity to build a better future for their children."

Avila said he and his wife Cindy are raising their own children in Florida, and this fight is personal.

"Byron and I will build on Governor DeSantis' conservative legacy, make Florida more affordable for working families, keep our communities safe, and defend the freedom that has made our state the envy of the nation," Avila said.

Avila was first elected to the Florida House in 2014, where he rose to serve as speaker pro tempore and chaired key tax and budget committees. Elected to the Florida Senate in 2022, Avila currently chairs the Senate Committee on Finance and Tax.

He sponsored Florida's landmark Stop W.O.K.E. Act, taking on divisive DEI ideology in classrooms and workplaces.

In response to the announcement, Donalds' Democratic opponent for governor, David Jolly, issued this statement:

“I congratulate former State Sen. Bryan Avila on his selection as the Republican Lieutenant Governor nominee. I wish him well. But, let's be honest: this race won't come down to Byron Donalds’ relationship with Avila, it will come down to Byron’s relationship with Donald Trump.”

Jolly selected former U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham as his running mate for lieutenant governor in the 2026 Florida governor's race.