President Donald Trump publicly defended Republican Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds on Truth Social Sunday after reports claimed Donalds was removing Trump’s endorsement from his campaign website and materials.

Trump said the report was false and emphasized that he endorsed Donalds early in the Republican primary, while also pointing to his own support among Florida voters. Trump said Donalds had quickly issued a statement and posted a picture disputing the report.

“Byron Donalds has my Complete and Total Endorsement,” Trump wrote, while also saying two rallies for Donalds are already scheduled in Florida and predicting they will be “SOLD OUT!”

The dispute follows reports that Donalds had removed or changed references to Trump from portions of his campaign materials. Trump attributed the story to what he called the “Woke and Dying USA Today” and criticized several other major news organizations for subsequently covering the report.

Trump argued that the reports were part of an effort to undermine his political influence and Donalds’ campaign. He also renewed his criticism of news organizations, calling for greater scrutiny of what he described as dishonest reporting and arguing that the media should face consequences through the courts.

The president also highlighted his past election results in Florida, saying he won the state by millions of votes and arguing that his standing among Florida voters remains strong. Trump went further, saying that if Donalds were to distance himself from Trump, Donalds would lose the election.

Trump used his post to contrast the two candidates, describing Donalds as a future “fantastic Governor” while sharply criticizing Jolly and accusing him of opposing the values of Florida Republicans.

Donalds is running for governor in the 2026 Florida election and has Trump's backing in the Republican contest. He faces Democrat David Jolly in the general election.

The public defense comes as Trump continues to maintain a prominent role in Florida Republican politics. His endorsement of Donalds has been a significant part of the congressman's campaign as he seeks to succeed Gov. Ron DeSantis.