Florida Governor Ron DeSantis publicly criticized the Republican Party of Florida over its handling of the 2026 gubernatorial primary process, arguing that party leaders are favoring a preferred candidate rather than allowing a fair competition.

In a post on X, DeSantis accused party officials of serving interests outside those of Florida voters and condemned the decision not to hold a traditional debate among the candidates at the upcoming 'Sunshine State Showdown' event.

Although he did not mention former President Donald Trump by name, the comments were widely interpreted as a criticism of Trump's influence within the state Republican Party.Trump has endorsed Representative Byron Donalds, who currently leads the Republican primary field by a significant margin.

DeSantis argued that the party's qualification criteria were being used to avoid a promised debate and to shape the outcome in favor of a preferred candidate.The dispute reflects a broader struggle over the future direction of Florida's Republican Party after DeSantis leaves office due to term limits.

DeSantis has declined to endorse Donalds, while his own ally, Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins, is among the candidates excluded from a direct debate with the frontrunner.Party chairman Evan Power defended the process, stating that candidates would still have opportunities to present their positions to voters.

Polling cited in the article showed Donalds holding a substantial lead over Collins, Paul Renner, and James Fishback, while a large share of voters remained undecided.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between factions aligned with Trump and those associated with DeSantis within Florida Republican politics.