POLITICS

Tallahassee: Lt. Gov. Jay Collins Enters Governor's Race

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 6

Center 100%

Sources: 6

60-Second Summary

Tallahassee. Lt. Gov. Jay Collins announced Monday that he is running for governor of Florida, entering the crowded Republican primary to succeed Gov. Ron DeSantis. Collins was appointed lieutenant governor in August 2025 after Jeanette Nuñez left to lead Florida International University and won a state Senate seat in November 2022. A 23-year Army Special Forces veteran and Purple Heart recipient, he cited military leadership experience in his announcement. Collins joins other GOP contenders including Trump-endorsed Rep. Byron Donalds. He posted his announcement on social media and discussed exploratory plans in interviews. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

About this summary

This 60-second summary was prepared by the JQJO editorial team after reviewing 6 original reports from Spectrum News Bay News 9, News 13, ABC Action News Tampa Bay (WFTS), WPTV, WFLA and NBC 6 South Florida.

Timeline of Events

November 2022: Collins wins a state Senate seat defeating incumbent Democrat Janet Cruz.
February 2025: Jeanette Nuñez departs lieutenant governor role to become FIU president.
August 2025: Gov. DeSantis appoints Jay Collins as Florida lieutenant governor.
September 2025: Collins tells reporters he is exploring a gubernatorial run.
January 12, 2026: Collins formally announces his campaign for governor.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 6
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 6

Who Benefited

Jay Collins, his campaign team, and allied Republican donors benefited from increased name recognition, fundraising opportunities, and amplified influence within the 2026 gubernatorial primary field.

Who Impacted

Competing Republican candidates and party groups faced intensified primary competition, diluted donor attention, and potential intra-party divisions as the field expanded.

Expert Opinion