Donalds praises Smith's comment as validation of common-sense politics

Rep. Byron Donalds, the frontrunner in Florida's Republican primary for governor, said Friday that ESPN host Stephen A. Smith's comment suggesting he could be made a Republican "means a lot" and reflects a broader public desire for common-sense governance. The remarks came days before Florida voters are scheduled to choose their nominee in a race Donalds is widely expected to win.

The interaction began Thursday on Smith's podcast, where the prominent sports commentator and Democrat stated, "I ain't no Democrat. But ... if anybody could make me one, it would be him," referring to Donalds. Smith praised the congressman as "the real deal," noting he has seen Donalds "battling with Democrats" and "he ain't backing up." A campaign official confirmed that the two are friends. Reacting Friday night, Donalds said he and Smith have gotten to know each other over the past year. "I do believe that resonates with people. So to hear Stephen A. Smith say that, really means a lot to me," Donalds stated.

Donalds, who is endorsed by President Donald Trump, is seeking the GOP nomination to succeed term-limited Governor Ron DeSantis. He is facing Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, former Florida House Speaker...