The Republican campaign for the governorship of Florida has strategically chosen a familiar face to engage Hispanic voters: State Senator Bryan Ávila, son of Cuban exiles, is the solo star of the new Spanish-language ad for the Byron Donalds-Ávila ticket, as reported by Florida Politics.
The 30-second commercial, titled "Affordable," is being broadcast on television, radio, and digital platforms. This initiative is part of a substantial investment—at least one million dollars—highlighted by the campaign as a significant effort to connect with Hispanic voters. It coincides with a series of visits by the Republican duo to Latino communities in southern and central Florida.
Notably absent from speaking in the ad is Donalds himself. Instead, it's Ávila who delivers the message: "We will fight for a more affordable Florida and for safe communities for our families," he states in Spanish.
He continues, "Having Byron Donalds as our next governor ensures a free, strong, and prosperous Florida."
A Symbolic Choice for a Crucial Role
Ávila's selection as spokesperson is intentional. Born in Hialeah on June 25, 1984, he is the son of Cubans who fled the island and built new lives in the United States—his father as a truck driver, his mother as a secretary.
Donalds introduced Ávila as his running mate for lieutenant governor on August 25 at Miami's Freedom Tower, a site rich with symbolism as it served as the Cuban Refugee Center from 1962 to 1974, resonating deeply with the Cuban-American community.
"My parents escaped communist Cuba, leaving behind their home and business because they knew the consequences of government control, the loss of freedom, and how socialism turns opportunities into misery," Ávila declared at the Freedom Tower event.
Targeting Diverse Hispanic Communities
Laura Roscoe, the campaign's Hispanic outreach director, emphasized the tailored approach of their message: "Florida's Hispanic community is not monolithic. It consists of many diverse groups. Whether you're a Cuban, Puerto Rican, Venezuelan, Colombian family, or from another part of Latin America, each brings unique stories and experiences."
The urgency of this outreach is underscored by polling data. A St. Pete Polls survey from mid-September showed Donalds with 43.5% compared to Democrat David Jolly's 43.4%, a statistical tie that categorizes the race as a "toss-up" according to Decision Desk HQ. More strikingly, among Hispanic respondents, Jolly led Donalds 48% to 39%.
Reclaiming Cuban-American Support
This figure contrasts with the traditionally strong Cuban-American support for the Republican Party. In 2024, 68% of Cuban-Americans in Miami-Dade voted for Trump—a record high—pushing the county to a Republican voter majority for the first time in modern history.
Jolly's lead among Hispanics in 2026 underscores why Donalds' campaign is leveraging Ávila's image and background to regain traction.
In a mid-September interview with Univision 23 Miami, Ávila addressed Cubans facing immigration challenges directly: "Do not lose faith, continue with the legal process."
Regarding policy towards Havana, he was unequivocal: "Byron Donalds, as the next governor, will maintain a firm stance. Florida will not be a home for socialism."
The Financial Landscape and Election Day
Donalds enjoys a substantial financial edge, having raised nearly $130 million compared to Jolly's less than $16 million. However, analysts caution that financial resources aren't everything.
"Byron has been everywhere. He's had various types of ads. I believe he hasn't been seen as sufficiently focused on Florida," commented analyst Matt Towery of Insider Advantage, drawing comparisons to the narrow DeSantis win over Gillum in 2018.
The general election is set for November 3.
Key Questions on Florida's Governor Race
Who is Bryan Ávila?
Bryan Ávila is a Cuban-American State Senator from Florida, known for his role in the Byron Donalds campaign and his family's history as exiles from Cuba.
Why is the Hispanic vote crucial in Florida's governor race?
The Hispanic vote is pivotal because it represents a significant and diverse portion of Florida's electorate, capable of swaying the election outcome.
What financial advantages does Byron Donalds have in the race?
Byron Donalds has a significant financial lead, having raised nearly $130 million, which is much higher compared to his opponent David Jolly's campaign funds.