Byron Donalds Highlights Affordability, Housing and Education in Stephen A. Smith Interview

Rep. Byron Donalds discussed affordability, property taxes, insurance, housing and education during an appearance on Stephen A. Smith's "Straight Shooter" Program Thursday, according to a post the congressman shared on X.

Donalds said the conversation focused on "keeping the Florida Dream within reach for every family." "Florida is the greatest state in the country, and as Governor, I'll fight to keep it that way," He wrote.

The Florida Republican, who represents the state's 19th Congressional District, is running as the Trump-endorsed frontrunner in the Republican primary for governor to succeed term-limited Gov. Ron DeSantis. The primary takes place Aug. 18.

Affordability has been central to Donalds' campaign message. He has highlighted rising property taxes, homeowners insurance costs and housing prices as challenges facing Florida families, while backing tax relief efforts and policies he credits with making the state a national leader.

Smith, a longtime sports commentator whose SiriusXM program also covers politics and current events, hosted the interview. Donalds described the exchange as a "great conversation" When sharing the clip.

A former Florida state representative with a background in finance, banking and insurance, Donalds leads recent Republican primary polls by significant margins. He faces challengers including Lt. Gov. Jay Collins and others.