Paul Renner, former speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, announced that he is running for Florida governor.
Renner, who lives in Palm Coast with his family, launched his campaign Wednesday.
Recommended Videos
Renner, a Republican, served in the legislature from 2015 to 2024. He currently serves on the State University System Board of Governors.
“As a legislator and Speaker of the House, I stood with Ron DeSantis to brand our state the Free State of Florida. I’m running for Governor so that when the DeSantis era comes to an end, we can defend our victories and solve the challenges that remain,” he wrote on social media. “As a military veteran of two wars, a state prosecutor, and Speaker of the House, I’ve fought the tough battles, and I will never back down from the fight for our conservative values. As a father, I am committed to securing Florida’s safety and prosperity for the next generation.”
DeSantis was first elected governor in 2018 and was reelected in 2022.
Renner’s primary Republican competitor, Congressman Byron Donalds, has already received the endorsement of President Donald Trump.
Renner said he is ready to oppose Democrat David Jolly and the possibility of Florida first lady Casey DeSantis, but he doesn’t suspect she will run.