Florida Elects First Black Governor

What happened

Updated 12:04am ET

Republican Rep. Byron Donalds defeated Democrat David Jolly to become Florida’s governor-elect and the first Black person elected to lead the state.
The close victory extends Republican control of the governor’s office, which the party has held since 1999.
Donalds had President Donald Trump’s endorsement and a large fundraising advantage over Jolly, a former Republican congressman who switched parties.
Donalds promised to continue Florida’s conservative policies while lowering property taxes and insurance costs and strengthening immigration and crime enforcement.
He will take office in January, succeeding Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, who could not seek another consecutive term because of term limits.

How the left told it

Left-leaning outlets emphasized Donalds’ historic victory, his Trump ties and continued Republican control after a competitive race. The New York Times called him a “staunch Trump supporter,” while PBS NewsHour described an “unexpectedly competitive race” that tested the GOP’s grip on Florida.

How the right told it

Right-leaning outlets highlighted a historic Republican victory that kept Florida red, often stressing its narrowness. Fox News emphasized Donalds making history and continuing DeSantis’ conservative agenda. The Daily Wire said he staved off a “blue wave,” while the Daily Mail described him surviving a “massive scare.”