Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio was defeated by even more Republicans from the conservative mainstream on Friday in his third attempt to win the speakership of the House.
Jordan lost a total of 25 Republican colleagues, falling well short of the required majority as the impasse widened, and further lost GOP support by secret ballot, leading to a search for a new candidate.
Rep. Byron Donalds has announced his candidacy for speaker, according to his representative Friday.
During the initial voting rounds in January, more than a dozen conservative opponents of Kevin McCarthy cast ballots for Donalds temporarily impeding McCarthy’s candidacy.
Donalds, an American politician and financial professional, has been serving as the U.S. representative for Florida’s 19th congressional district since 2021.
In the news: Florida Gov. DeSantis To Call Session On Iran Sanctions
With a background in finance and marketing, Donalds entered the political arena after working in the finance, insurance, and banking industries.
Who Is Byron Donalds?
Byron Donalds was born and raised in the Crown Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York City. Growing up in a single-parent household, Donalds overcame challenges and pursued his education.
He graduated from Nazareth Regional High School in East Flatbush in 1996 before attending Florida A&M University. In 2002, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in finance and marketing from Florida State University.
Career in Finance
After completing his education, Donalds embarked on a career in finance. He started as a credit analyst at TIB Bank in 2003 and steadily climbed the corporate ladder.
Donalds was promoted to senior credit analyst in 2004 and later became the commercial credit manager, assistant vice president, and credit manager.
In 2007, he transitioned to CMG Surety LLC, where he served as a portfolio manager. In 2015, Donalds joined Wells Fargo Advisors as a Financial Advisor, bringing his expertise to the banking and investment sector.
Entry into Politics
Donalds’ involvement in the Tea Party movement sparked his interest in politics. Encouraged by his peers, he decided to run for the U.S. House of Representatives in Florida’s 19th congressional district in 2012.
Although he finished fifth out of six candidates, this experience propelled him further into the political arena. In 2016, Donalds successfully ran for the Florida House of Representatives, representing the 80th district. During his tenure, he chaired the Insurance and Banking Subcommittee, showcasing his expertise in finance-related matters.
U.S. House of Representatives
2020 Election
In the 2020 election, Donalds emerged as the Republican nominee for Florida’s 19th congressional district, vying to succeed retiring incumbent Francis Rooney.
Despite facing stiff competition in a crowded nine-way Republican primary, Donalds secured victory by a narrow margin of 770 votes over State Representative Dane Eagle, avoiding a recount.
With Republicans holding a significant advantage in voter registration, Donalds’ primary win positioned him as the frontrunner for the general election.
Campaign Platform and Victory
Throughout his campaign, Donalds positioned himself as a staunch supporter of Donald Trump, emphasizing his conservative values.
He described himself as a “Trump-supporting, gun-owning, liberty-loving, pro-life, politically incorrect Black man.” His platform focused on economic freedom, clean water initiatives, nuclear power, and reduced government involvement in healthcare.
Donalds opposed the Green New Deal, aligning himself with conservative principles. In the November general election, he defeated Democratic nominee Cindy Banyai, securing his place in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Tenure and Achievements
Since assuming office, Donalds has made his mark in Congress. In 2021, he became a member of the “Freedom Force,” a group of incoming House Republicans committed to combating socialism in America. However, his attempts to join the Congressional Black Caucus were met with resistance, highlighting the political divisions within the caucus. Donalds has remained steadfast in his conservative ideology and has been an active participant in various legislative matters.
Speaker of the House Election
In the highly anticipated Speaker of the House election in 2023, Donalds emerged as a prominent figure. He received one vote from Chip Roy in the first round and subsequently voted for Kevin McCarthy on the initial ballots.
However, he shifted his support to Jim Jordan on the third ballot, garnering attention for his strategic maneuvering.
Donalds’ nomination for Speaker on the fourth and fifth ballots made history, as it marked the first time two Black lawmakers were nominated for the position.
Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023
Donalds made headlines when he voted against the final passage of the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 in the House.
His stance on fiscal matters underscores his commitment to conservative principles and limited government intervention.
Committee Assignments
As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Donalds serves on several committees. In the 118th Congress, he holds positions on the Committee on Financial Services and the Committee on Oversight and Accountability.
Within these committees, he contributes to various subcommittees, including Digital Assets, Financial Technology, and Inclusion; Financial Institutions and Monetary Policy; Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs; and Government Operations and the Federal Workforce.
Personal Life and Family
Byron Donalds is married to Erika Donalds, and the couple has three sons. They reside in Naples, Florida, where they are actively involved in their community.
Donalds’ personal life reflects his commitment to family values and provides him with a deep understanding of the concerns faced by families in his district.
Wrapping Up
Byron Donalds’ journey from finance professional to U.S. representative showcases his determination, political acumen, and commitment to conservative principles.
Through his work in Congress, he aims to champion economic freedom, advocate for clean water initiatives, and represent the interests of his constituents in Florida’s 19th congressional district.
Donalds’ career trajectory serves as an inspiring example of how individuals can transition from successful professional careers to make a lasting impact in the political sphere.
Android Users, Click To Download The Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter. Signup for our free newsletter.
We can’t do this without your help; visit our GiveSendGo page and donate any dollar amount; every penny helps