Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins delivers remarks touting the state's efforts in combating fentanyl and other illegal drugs as Gov. Ron DeSantis listens during a news conference at the FDLE Orlando Regional Operations Center, Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025, in Orlando, Fla. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)
The lieutenant governor, who previously served as a state senator, is jumping into a GOP gubernatorial primary that also features contenders including Trump-backed candidate U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, and James Fishback.
Collins name-dropped the current governor in his statement on Monday.
DESANTIS LAUNCHES FLORIDA REDISTRICTING PUSH TO POTENTIALLY ADD MORE GOP HOUSE SEATS
Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins speaks at a news conference outside Stockton Metropolitan Airport on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, in Stockton, Calif. (Dean J. Condoleo/The Modesto Bee/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)
"We chose to make Florida home for my family because it stands for freedom, opportunity, and personal responsibility. In the Legislature and as Lieutenant Governor, I’ve worked alongside Governor Ron DeSantis to deliver results and advance a bold, conservative agenda. I did not come to chase headlines. I came to deliver results. Standing with law enforcement. Protecting communities. And to keep Florida strong," he noted.
Collins indicated that as governor he would be a "strong partner" for President Donald Trump.
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"I’m running for Governor to keep Florida strong and to build on the legacy of leadership that has made our state the model for the nation. As Governor, I will be a strong partner to President Trump in fighting for secure borders, a strong economy, and an America First agenda that puts families and freedom first. This moment demands discipline, courage, and leaders willing to do what is right, even when it is hard. I am ready to lead. I am ready to Keep Florida Strong!" he said in the statement.
Alex Nitzberg is a writer for Fox News Digital.
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/florida-lt-gov-jay-collins-jumps-sunshine-state-gubernatorial-race-succeed-ron-desantis