Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings — Florida’s Next Governor?
Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings/ Photo by J Willie David, III / Florida National News
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings has officially stepped into the race for Florida governor, filing his candidacy on October 31, 2025, according to the Florida Division of Elections. The longtime law enforcement leader and two-term mayor is now positioning himself as the Democratic frontrunner in the 2026 race to succeed term-limited Republican Governor Ron DeSantis.
Photo: J Willie David, III / Florida National News
Demings, who previously served as Orlando’s police chief and Orange County sheriff, is known for his steady leadership and commitment to community safety and growth. His bid for governor could make history — if elected, he would become Florida’s first African American governor.
Photo: Damien Acevedo/Florida National News.
Political analysts say Demings’ record and name recognition across Central Florida make him a strong contender in what’s shaping up to be a high-profile statewide race.
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