The Florida Retail Federation officially announced its endorsement of Congressman Byron Donalds for governor on Friday, backing his campaign for the state’s highest office.

Endorsement Based on Legislative Record

Leaders from the statewide trade association highlighted Donalds’ legislative history, pointing to his record on tax cuts, deregulation, and economic growth policies during his time in both the Florida Legislature and the U.S. House of Representatives.

“Byron Donalds understands what it takes to maintain Florida’s reputation as the most business-friendly state in the nation,” said Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. “From his time in the Florida Legislature to the U.S. Congress, he has a strong track record of reducing government overreach, cutting taxes and advancing policies that support job creation. We are proud to stand with Byron Donalds, the next governor of the great state of Florida.”

According to data provided by the federation, Florida’s retail industry serves as a major driver for the state economy. The sector supports nearly four million jobs—representing roughly one-third of all employment statewide—while paying out more than $94 billion in annual wages and generating over $64 billion in sales tax revenue each year.

Donalds accepted the endorsement, stating that the partnership underscores a mutual focus on sustaining the state’s current economic trajectory. “I’m honored to earn the endorsement of the Florida Retail Federation. Florida’s retailers are the backbone of our economy, creating jobs, serving our communities and helping families thrive,” Donalds said. “As governor, I’ll continue fighting to keep taxes low, reduce burdensome regulations and ensure Florida remains the best place in America to start a business, grow a business and create opportunity for generations to come.”

Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.