Divisions between different factions of the GOP are beginning to take shape in key states ahead of the 2025 and 2026 elections.

In Florida, first lady Casey DeSantis mulling a gubernatorial bid as Rep. Byron Donalds launches his campaign with the support of President Trump. In Arizona, a full-fledged primary battle could play out in that state’s governor’s race between Trump-backed Karrin Taylor Robson and former House Freedom Caucus Chair Rep. Andy Biggs. And in Texas, Attorney General Ken Paxton is giving serious indications that he will challenge incumbent Sen. John Cornyn in the state’s Senate primary.

These emerging dynamics could lead to expensive and bruising primaries as the party seeks to maintain its grip on power even red states throughout the Trump administration.

One common denominator in Florida and Arizona is the impact of Trump’s endorsement. The coveted backing has given past GOP primary candidates access to resources and a boost in name ID.

Trump backed Robson in December, and she has touted the president’s endorsement since announcing her candidacy earlier this month. The president similarly backed Donalds on Truth Social days before the congressman formally launched his campaign this week.

Unlike Robson, Donalds is not facing a primary challenge — yet. But the two races have the potential to see bruising GOP primaries play out for very different reasons.

Florida governor's race

In Florida, the brewing battle can be traced back to Ron DeSantis and Donalds falling out over the congressman’s decision to endorse Trump in the 2024 Republican presidential primary. The two also........

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