Republican gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds announced his running mate Tuesday, selecting South Florida state Sen. Bryan Avila.
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Avila, a Florida Army National Guard captain and academic dean of the School of Criminal Justice at Doral College, represents Florida’s 39th District — covering parts of western and northwestern Miami-Dade County, including Hialeah and Miami Lakes.
READ: Byron Donalds wins Republican primary for Florida governor
Donalds made the announcement at Miami’s Freedom Tower, a historic building and now-museum that was once used to process Cuban refugees who fled communism.
Avila, born and raised in Hialeah to Cuban refugees, previously served in the Florida House of Representatives from 2014 to 2022.
“Bryan Avila is a proven conservative, a dedicated public servant, a military officer, and most importantly, a husband and father who understands exactly what is at stake for Florida families,” Donalds said during his speech. “The son of Cuban exiles who fled communism for freedom, Bryan understands that the Florida Dream is worth fighting for. He has stood with Gov. DeSantis to defend our freedoms, fought to lower costs for hardworking families, and answered the call to serve our state and country in uniform. I am proud to have him by my side as we fight for Florida’s future.”
Avila’s senate seat is now left vacant to run alongside Donalds, ending his 12 consecutive years in the legislature.
Donalds, alongside Avila, will challenge Democratic candidate David Jolly in November.
READ: “Why would I do your homework for you?” Byron Donalds on debates and more as primaries approach
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