Florida Senator Pizzo Eyes Gubernatorial Run After Party Switch

Florida state Senator Jason Pizzo, who recently made headlines by leaving the Democratic Party to become an independent, has officially announced his intention to run for governor of Florida. The move throws another contender into what is already shaping up to be a hotly contested race for the state’s top executive position in 2026.

Pizzo confirmed his gubernatorial ambitions in response to a direct question from CBS News Miami’s Jim Defede, stating unequivocally, "Yes I am." He further elaborated on his decision in a written statement to Fox News Digital, emphasizing his belief that Florida is ready for a leader who prioritizes the needs of the people over partisan politics.

"Florida is ready for someone to put people before party, and get back to basics in public service," Pizzo asserted. He highlighted the significant fiscal and resiliency challenges facing the state, positioning himself as the most qualified candidate to navigate these complex issues. "The state is facing significant fiscal and resiliency challenges, and I’m the best one to guide us through."

Pizzo’s announcement follows his earlier decision to leave the Democratic Party, a move he attributed to his belief that the party is currently ineffective in Florida. He previously characterized the Democratic Party in Florida as "dead" and "rudderless," signaling a desire to forge a new political path independent of traditional party affiliations.

The gubernatorial landscape in Florida is poised for a significant shift, as current Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican, is term-limited and unable to seek re-election in 2026. The state constitution prevents individuals from serving as governor for more than six years in two consecutive terms, creating an open field for aspiring candidates.

The race already includes at least one high-profile contender: U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, a Republican representing Florida’s 19th congressional district. Donalds announced his bid for the governor’s office in February, receiving a strong endorsement from former President Donald Trump.

Trump publicly urged Donalds to run, proclaiming him a "truly Great and Powerful Governor for Florida." He further stated that Donalds would have his "Complete and Total Endorsement" should he decide to enter the race. Trump’s endorsement carries considerable weight within the Republican Party in Florida, potentially giving Donalds a significant advantage in securing the party’s nomination.

Pizzo’s entry into the race as an independent injects a new dynamic into the election. His platform of prioritizing people over party aims to appeal to a broad spectrum of voters, including those disillusioned with both the Republican and Democratic parties. However, running as an independent presents its own challenges, including the need to build a campaign infrastructure outside of the established party system and to secure ballot access without the automatic support of a major party.

The issues Pizzo highlights, such as fiscal responsibility and environmental resilience, are likely to be central themes in the upcoming election. Florida faces significant challenges related to climate change, including rising sea levels, increased frequency of hurricanes, and the need to invest in infrastructure that can withstand these threats. The state’s economy is also a key concern, with issues such as affordable housing, healthcare costs, and job creation remaining high priorities for voters.

Pizzo’s background as a state senator provides him with experience in addressing these issues at the legislative level. He has served in the Florida Senate since 2016, representing District 38, which includes parts of Miami-Dade County. His legislative record and policy positions will likely come under scrutiny as he campaigns for governor.

The 2026 Florida gubernatorial election is still more than two years away, but the early announcements and political maneuvering suggest a highly competitive and closely watched race. The decisions of Pizzo and Donalds add to the already complex political landscape in the Sunshine State, and the coming months are likely to see other potential candidates emerge and further shape the contours of the election.

The election will serve as a test of the political landscape in Florida and whether voters are ready to embrace a more independent approach to governance. Pizzo’s candidacy presents a unique opportunity for voters to consider a leader who is not tied to traditional party platforms and who promises to prioritize the needs of the state over partisan considerations.

However, the historical dominance of the Republican Party in Florida politics cannot be ignored. Recent election results have shown a growing Republican advantage in voter registration and turnout, which could pose a significant challenge for Pizzo, as well as any other potential Democratic candidates.

The race will also be influenced by national political trends and the overall mood of the electorate. Issues such as the economy, immigration, and social policy will undoubtedly play a role in shaping voter preferences. The outcome of the 2026 Florida gubernatorial election will have significant implications for the state’s future direction and its role in national politics.