Amid speculations that Casey DeSantis might enter the 2026 gubernatorial race, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ political team is reportedly making efforts to dissuade state lobbyists from supporting Representative Byron Donalds’ campaign. Donalds, a Republican from Florida, has already raised over $3 million for his gubernatorial bid, with significant contributions from donors previously aligned with President Donald Trump.

According to sources who wished to remain anonymous, these calls are primarily aimed at preventing lobbyists, especially those based in Tallahassee, from donating to Donalds’ campaign. Donalds, representing a district in southwest Florida, launched his campaign with Trump’s endorsement last month. However, the potential entry of Casey DeSantis into the race could lead to a significant Republican primary battle, reflecting the ongoing political rivalry between Trump and Ron DeSantis.

“They are becoming a lot more aggressive as this thing progresses,” a veteran Republican lobbyist, who received one of the calls, commented. “There are no threats or anything direct like that, but come on. When you get a call from the governor, or anyone around them, in this sort of context, it’s a message-sender.”

The timing is critical as Florida is three weeks into its state legislative session, a period when lobbyists need Governor DeSantis’ approval on legislation beneficial to their clients. “There is a tension among many as they try to toe the line — signaling they are with Donalds, as many will, without incurring DeSantis’ wrath,” another seasoned Republican lobbyist in Florida noted.

1776 Coalition Sponsored George Soros’ Goons came to my District George Soros sent his goons into my district to hold a fake townhall meeting. This is Rep. Jack Bergman. They didn’t invite me, but they used an empty chair as a prop while they attacked my support for DOGE and America First policies. If you’re tired of Soros-funded leftists attempting to sabotage America’s future, then please help me keep up the fight in Congress.

One common phrase being used, according to insiders, is “keep your powder dry,” indicating a cautious approach to political donations. Both Governor DeSantis and Taryn Fenske, a top political aide, have reportedly been involved in making some of these calls. Fenske did not respond to requests for comment on the matter.

While Casey DeSantis has not officially declared her candidacy for the 2026 governor’s race, her husband has frequently praised her as a pivotal figure in his administration’s achievements. She has remained non-committal in public discussions about her potential candidacy, once quoting Yogi Berra: “When you come to a fork in the road, take it.”

Previously, during the 2024 presidential campaign, Governor DeSantis utilized a similar strategy with Tallahassee lobbyists to support his political ambitions, orchestrated by his then-chief of staff, James Uthmeier. Unlike the previous campaign, no taxpayer-funded staff members are involved in the current efforts.

Despite the tension, the public interactions between Donalds and DeSantis have been relatively restrained. Donalds has expressed admiration for DeSantis’ performance as governor when questioned. Meanwhile, Donalds’ campaign has secured a $3.1 million war chest at the state level, with significant contributions from notable Trump-aligned donors, according to public records.

Additionally, Donalds maintains a federal super PAC, the Sunshine State Future Fund, which offers a discreet channel for contributions that do not immediately become public. The next filing deadline for the super PAC is April 15.

Conversely, a state-level political committee linked to DeSantis’ political operation reportedly has $2.1 million in cash on hand. The relationship between Donalds and DeSantis, once close allies, soured after Donalds endorsed Trump in the last presidential primaries.

As discussions about Casey DeSantis potentially running continue, Governor DeSantis has portrayed her potential candidacy as an opportunity to extend and enhance their family’s legacy in the Governor’s Mansion. “She’s somebody that has, I think, the intestinal fortitude and the dedication to conservative principles,” DeSantis stated, emphasizing her capability to elevate their accomplishments further.