Is Anthony Sabatini preparing to shake up Florida’s political landscape once again—this time with a run for governor in 2026? That’s the buzz reverberating through conservative circles and political media, as the outspoken Lake County Commissioner intensifies his public presence and sharpens his attacks on fellow Republicans, including presumed frontrunner Byron Donalds.
Sabatini, a former state legislator and self-described constitutional conservative, has built a reputation for bucking party leadership and embracing populist, hardline positions. His recent social media post claiming that “deporting 10 million people would solve the housing crisis” sparked immediate backlash and reignited fierce debate over immigration policy, housing affordability, and the ethics of political messaging. Critics called the statement inflammatory and dehumanizing, while supporters praised it as a blunt acknowledgment of economic pressures tied to population growth.
But Sabatini’s ambitions may go beyond provocative tweets. His escalating criticism of Byron Donalds—a rising GOP figure with national recognition and strong ties to Donald Trump—suggests a brewing rivalry within the party. Sabatini has accused Donalds of being too cozy with establishment interests and insufficiently committed to the grassroots conservative movement. These attacks, while not yet part of a formal campaign, mirror the early tactics of insurgent candidates who aim to carve out space by challenging the presumed favorite.
Political insiders note that Sabatini has a history of launching bold, often controversial bids. He previously ran for Congress in Florida’s 7th and 11th districts, withdrawing from the latter after Trump endorsed his opponent. Since then, Sabatini has doubled down on his anti-establishment persona, winning a seat on the Lake County Commission and continuing to build a base among libertarian-leaning and MAGA-aligned voters.
His potential candidacy for governor would inject volatility into an already competitive field. With Ron DeSantis term-limited and national figures like Matt Gaetz and Ashley Moody rumored to be considering bids, the 2026 race is shaping up to be a defining moment for Florida’s Republican Party. Sabatini’s entry would likely force candidates to confront issues of ideological purity, immigration, and the future of conservatism in the state.
Though he has not officially declared his candidacy, Sabatini’s recent moves—public feuds, controversial proposals, and increased media visibility—are textbook signs of a pre-launch strategy. Whether he ultimately throws his hat in the ring or remains a disruptive voice from the sidelines, one thing is certain: Anthony Sabatini is not fading quietly into the background.
Florida’s political future may hinge on whether voters embrace his brand of uncompromising conservatism—or reject it in favor of more tempered leadership.
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