Florida Republican gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds selects state Sen. Bryan Avila as running mate

The Republican nominee in the race for Florida governor, Byron Donalds, held an event at the Freedom Tower in Miami on Tuesday morning where he announced his pick to become the state's next lieutenant governor.

Donalds chose state Sen. Bryan Avila, who is a veteran with the Florida Army National Guard, as his running mate during the Miami event.

"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.

Donalds said Avila "the Florida Dream is worth fighting for," Donalds said.

"He has stood with Governor (Ron) DeSantis to defend our freedoms, fought to lower costs for hardworking families, and answered the call to serve our state and country in uniform," Donalds continued.

"The son of Cuban exiles who fled communism for freedom, Bryan understands that the Florida Dream is worth fighting for. He has stood with Governor 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 was born and raised in Hialeah, and has represented Cuban-majority Miami communities in both the Florida House and Florida Senate.

He called himself the most conservative member of the Florida Legislature in 2024.

"I am deeply honored to join Byron Donalds and accept the Republican nomination for Lieutenant Governor," Avila said. "My parents escaped communist Cuba because they believed America offered something socialism never could – freedom and the opportunity to build a better future for their children."

Avila went on to say that he and Donalds would "build on Governor DeSantis' conservative legacy, make Florida more affordable for working families, keep our communities safe and defend the freedom that has made our state the envy of the nation."

Avila is married to his wife Cindy and they have two children. They currently live in Mimi Springs.