Miami, Fla. – Florida Republican Party Chairman Evan Power formally congratulated State Senator Bryan Avila on Tuesday, confirming the party’s full backing of the Donalds‑Avila ticket for governor and lieutenant governor in the 2026 election cycle.
Local launch at the Freedom Tower
The announcement followed a campaign appearance at Miami’s historic Freedom Tower, where gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds introduced Avila as his running mate. Power described the choice as “outstanding,” noting Avila’s background as a soldier, patriot and proven conservative who “understands that freedom is never guaranteed and is always worth fighting for.”
Family roots and public service
Power emphasized Avila’s personal story, saying the senator was born in Florida after his parents fled Cuba’s communist regime in search of liberty. Avila has continued that legacy through service in the Florida Army National Guard, where he holds the rank of Captain, and through a legislative career that began with his 2014 election to the Florida House, later serving as Speaker pro tempore before winning a Senate seat in 2022.
During his time in office, Avila chaired tax and finance committees, sponsored the Stop W.O.K.E. Act, and worked on property‑tax relief and utility‑rate measures. He also serves as Academic Dean of the Doral College School of Criminal Justice.
Policy focus for the ticket
Both Donalds and Avila said the campaign will center on affordability, public safety and conservative governance. Their platform calls for lowering the cost of living, keeping taxes low, expanding school choice and supporting law‑enforcement officers.
Avila, who lives in Miami Springs with his wife Cindy and their two children, added that the fight is personal. “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,” he said. “Today, Cindy and I are raising our own children here in Florida, and this fight is personal.”
Party advantage and voter outlook
Power pointed to the Republican Party’s voter registration advantage in Florida, citing a margin of more than 1.5 million voters. He said the party is “united, energized, and ready to put the full force of the Republican Party of Florida behind the Donalds‑Avila ticket and deliver a massive Republican victory this November.”
Donalds echoed the sentiment, praising Avila’s military record, legislative experience and family values. He noted Avila’s alignment with Governor Ron DeSantis on defending freedoms and reducing costs for working families.
What’s next
The ticket will begin a statewide tour aimed at rallying voters in key regions, including the Tampa Bay area, Central Florida and the Panhandle. Campaign officials said they will focus on outreach to families, veterans and small‑business owners who feel the impact of rising living costs and public‑safety concerns.
Florida’s primary election is scheduled for August 2026, with the general election set for November 2026.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
