Byron Donalds Scrubs Trump References

What happened

Florida GOP gubernatorial nominee Byron Donalds updated his campaign website to remove its most visible references to Donald Trump. The homepage no longer features Trump-endorsed branding or a photo of Donalds with Trump and his wife. The changes matter because Donalds has long been a staunch Trump ally and built much of his campaign around Trump’s endorsement. They also come as Republicans worry Trump’s falling approval could hurt candidates in fall elections, including in Florida’s race to replace term-limited Gov. Ron DeSantis. Donalds’ campaign said he remains proud of Trump’s endorsement and is focused on policy proposals for Floridians. Trump still appears in less prominent places. The race now tests how closely Donalds keeps Trump in view.

From the left

Left-leaning outlets framed the move as a sign Republicans see Trump as a liability, not just a website refresh. CNN tied it to candidates distancing themselves from an “unpopular president” before elections. The Guardian connected the episode to Republican fears of losses and a more vulnerable Florida race. The Daily Beast cast it as a dramatic snub from a loyal MAGA ally.