Byron Donalds, the Republican candidate for governor of Florida, has selected state senator Bryan Ávila, a Cuban American, as his running mate for the upcoming election on November 3.
The announcement took place on Tuesday at the Freedom Tower in downtown Miami, a site deeply significant to the Cuban American community, as reported by Telemundo 51.
Donalds, who has the endorsement of former President Donald Trump, secured victory in the Republican primary on August 18 with nearly 47.8% of the vote. He is set to face Democrat David Jolly, who is running alongside Gwen Graham, in the November election. This race will determine the successor to Governor Ron DeSantis, who is barred from seeking a third consecutive term.
Meet Bryan Ávila
Introducing his running mate, Donalds emphasized, "Bryan Ávila is a military officer and a dedicated public servant who has devoted his career to defending freedom and reducing costs. He is also the son of Cuban exiles, a man who truly understands the Florida Dream and why it's essential to protect it."
Born on June 25, 1984, in Hialeah, Florida, Bryan Ávila is 42 years old. His parents fled Cuba, leaving behind their home and business. In the United States, his father worked as a truck driver, and his mother took up a job as a secretary.
Ávila graduated from Miami Springs Senior High School in 2002, showcasing an impressive academic record. He earned an associate degree from Miami Dade College, a bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Miami in 2006, and two master's degrees from Florida International University in Criminal Justice and Public Administration.
Before fully committing to politics, Ávila served as an adjunct professor at Miami Dade College from 2009 to 2014 and later taught at Broward College. In 2013, he was elected vice chairman of the Miami-Dade County Republican Party, a role he held until his election to the Florida House of Representatives in 2014, representing District 111 in Miami-Dade. He remained in that position until 2022, serving as the Speaker pro tempore in his final years.
In 2022, Ávila was elected unopposed to the Florida Senate for District 39, covering parts of Miami-Dade, where he chairs the Finance and Tax Committee and serves as vice chairman of the Transportation Committee. In May 2026, as chairman of the Finance and Tax Committee, he played a crucial role in passing the HB 7031E tax package, with an estimated impact of $272.2 million.
In the military realm, Ávila joined the Florida Army National Guard in April 2016, graduating with honors from the Basic Officer Leadership Course for General Staff Officers and holding the rank of captain. His decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal, and the Outstanding Military Volunteer Service Medal.
Speaking at the Freedom Tower on Tuesday, Ávila invoked his family's legacy, stating, "My parents escaped communist Cuba, leaving behind their home and business because they knew what happens when the government takes control, when freedom vanishes, and when socialism turns opportunity into misery."
Key Moments in Bryan Ávila's Political Career
Senator Ávila has been at the forefront of several significant public initiatives throughout his legislative career in Florida.
In December 2019, as the state representative for District 111, he, along with Senator Manny Díaz Jr., introduced a bill to eliminate express lanes and prohibit new tolls on Miami's Palmetto Expressway, directly impacting thousands of South Florida drivers.
More recently, in May 2026, his role as chairman of the Senate Finance and Tax Committee placed him at the heart of discussions surrounding the state legislature's comprehensive tax relief package.
Regarding this measure, Ávila stated, "This is a broad tax relief package that positively impacts taxpayers, homeowners with homestead exemptions, military service members, small counties, and rural counties."
If the Donalds-Ávila ticket wins in November, Ávila is set to become Florida's next lieutenant governor.
Understanding Bryan Ávila's Background and Political Impact
Who is Bryan Ávila?
Bryan Ávila is a Cuban American state senator from Florida, known for his military service and political career. He is the son of Cuban exiles and has been active in Florida politics, holding key positions such as chairman of the Finance and Tax Committee.
What significant legislation has Bryan Ávila been involved in?
Bryan Ávila has been involved in significant legislation including a bill to eliminate express lanes on Miami's Palmetto Expressway and leading a comprehensive tax relief package in the Florida Senate as chairman of the Finance and Tax Committee.
What military accolades has Bryan Ávila received?
In his military career, Bryan Ávila has received the Army Commendation Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal, and the Outstanding Military Volunteer Service Medal, highlighting his commitment and service.