A former Republican congressman and vocal critic of Donald Trump says he wants to become governor in the president’s adopted home state of Florida, and he’s running as a Democrat.

Given the lack of Democrats with statewide name recognition, he could well cruise to the nomination unchallenged by a serious opponent.

Former Florida Senate Minority Leader Jason Pizzo announced he plans to run as an independent after leaving the Democratic Party on the Senate floor, calling the party “dead.” Florida’s primary election is August 18, 2026, with the general election on November 3, 2026.