STATEMENT: Equal Ground Reacts to Historic Significance of Black Leaders Potentially Leading Both Major-Party Tickets for FL Governor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 4, 2025

Contact: Feldman Strategies, team@feldmanstrategies.com

Equal Ground Reacts to Historic Significance of Black Leaders Potentially Leading Both Major-Party Tickets for FL Governor 

FLORIDA – Today, Equal Ground Action Fund, the political arm of Equal Ground Education Fund – the preeminent Black-led, non-partisan, non-profit working to build Black political power in Florida – reacted to the historic moment and potential for two Black Florida leaders to lead both major-party tickets in Florida’s gubernatorial race, following Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings announcing his bid for governor.

Genesis Robinson, Executive Director of Equal Ground Action Fund, released the following statement:

“As we enter a gubernatorial election cycle to replace a Governor who has time and time again signed laws that have deeply harmed our communities, this moment demands thoughtful attention and deep civic engagement from Floridians across the political spectrum. 

“We can’t overlook the historic significance of potentially having Mayor Jerry Demings and Congressman Byron Donalds at the top of both major-party tickets for Governor. This moment represents a defining chapter for Florida – one that reflects the growing strength of Black political leadership in a state where Gov. DeSantis has sought to erase our history and silence our voices. It stands as a powerful milestone in a state where Black voices, leadership, and civic power have for far too long faced systemic barriers towards progress.”

Throughout his decades-long career, Mayor Jerry Demings has been a trailblazer. He was Orlando’s first Black police chief, Orange County’s first Black sheriff, and its first Black Mayor. His continued trajectory reflects both personal dedication to public service and the progress made possible through generations of community struggle and civic participation.

Demings now enters a gubernatorial field with several others including, Congressman Byron Donalds, a businessman, Black Republican from Sarasota and current member of Congress who has announced his campaign with backing from Donald Trump. The presence of two Black candidates from different political ideologies in this race underscores a uniquely historic moment for Florida and highlights the expanding landscape of Black political leadership in our state.

From expanding economic opportunity amid rising unemployment to protecting voting rights, ensuring access to quality education, affordable housing, and equitable healthcare, these are the issues that define the fight for Florida’s future, are critical for Black communities, and must be top priorities for all candidates in this race. 

The upcoming governor’s race is shaping up to be one of historic significance. If Mayor Demings and Congressman Byron Donalds win their party nominations, this would mark the first time in Florida’s history that both major-party candidates for governor are Black.

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