Full Send Podcast | Episode 155: Byron Donalds – Navigating Politics and Policy

Host: Shots Podcast Network
Guest: Byron Donalds, Future Governor of Florida
Release Date: April 24, 2025

1. Introduction & Personal Background

In Episode 155 of the Full Send Podcast, host Kyle Forgeard engages in a comprehensive discussion with Byron Donalds, a prominent Republican figure and the future governor of Florida. The conversation delves into Byron’s political journey, his stance on key issues, personal experiences within the political arena, and his vision for Florida's future.

2. Sports Enthusiasm and Personal Interests

The episode kicks off with a casual exchange about Byron Donalds' passion for sports, highlighting his enthusiasm for various competitive events.

• Kyle Forgeard [01:08]: "Are you a UFC fan or was that your first time at a fight?"

• Byron Donalds [01:10]: "I'm a fan of sports, so anytime you get me in a room where there's competition, I love it. I'm a pro wrestling fan. I'm a basketball junkie, so I love pro in college basketball, love football, obviously, playoff baseball, playoff hockey is legit."

Byron emphasizes his love for competition and sportsmanship, drawing parallels between sporting events and political dynamics.

3. Sanctuary Cities and Immigration Policy

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Byron Donalds' firm stance on sanctuary cities and broader immigration policies.

• Kyle Forgeard [03:05]: "What was that like? And what is the solution to those sanctuary cities?"

• Byron Donalds [03:23]: "The real solution is you can't allow them. If you're going to be a sanctuary city, you shouldn't get federal money, because sanctuary status is against federal law."

Byron argues that sanctuary cities undermine federal laws and suggests withholding federal funding as a deterrent. He criticizes the Democratic Party's long-standing support for open immigration policies, labeling them as detrimental to national security and economic stability.

• Byron Donalds [04:20]: "The Democrat party for about 30 years now has been on the side of illegal immigration or rampant open immigration. They don't want rules, they don't want borders."

He advocates for a meritocratic approach to immigration, emphasizing the need for order and assimilation into American culture.

4. Political Experiences and Endorsements

Byron shares personal anecdotes illustrating his interactions with key political figures and his experiences within the political landscape.

• Kyle Forgeard [15:40]: "What was it like getting that Trump endorsement?"

• Byron Donalds [15:43]: "President goes, Byron, I did something big... He's endorsing me to be governor. The whole room goes berserk."

This endorsement from former President Donald Trump serves as a pivotal moment in Byron's political career, bolstering his credibility and support within the Republican base.

5. Transition from Democrat to Republican

Byron discusses his ideological shift from being a Democrat to embracing Republican values, outlining the factors that influenced his political realignment.

• Kyle Forgeard [24:06]: "What made you transition to being a Republican?"

• Byron Donalds [24:10]: "I realized I was a conservative in '08... I didn't vote for Barack Obama... I voted for John McCain."

He attributes his change to disagreements with Democratic policies on economic and healthcare fronts, coupled with personal principles instilled by his family.

• Byron Donalds [26:20]: "Being a black Republican in the era of Obama was lonely. You had to have the courage of your convictions."

Byron emphasizes the importance of independent thinking and adhering to personal beliefs over party loyalty.

6. Views on Systemic Racism and Meritocracy

Addressing a contentious topic, Byron shares his perspective on systemic racism and the current state of meritocracy in America.

• Kyle Forgeard [28:01]: "Do you believe that America still has, like, a problem with racism, like systemic racism?"

• Byron Donalds [28:10]: "No. I think the country did, but I don't think so anymore. We are as close to a meritocracy as we've ever been."

He acknowledges the historical presence of racism but contends that contemporary America has moved towards a merit-based system, evident in diverse sectors like business, politics, and entertainment.

7. Campaign Strategies and Political Landscape

Byron provides insights into his campaign strategies, the challenges faced, and his critique of the current political environment.

• Kyle Forgeard [39:25]: "What do you think about the left right now... What was the whole situation with the immigrant that was wrongfully sent out?"

• Byron Donalds [40:48]: "They only get pissed when DeSantis sends legals on a plane. They want open borders but don't want enforcement."

He criticizes Democratic approaches to immigration, arguing that their support for open borders contradicts their desire for orderly assimilation.

Byron recounts instances of political maneuvering, highlighting the intensity of intra-party conflicts and the strategic efforts required to maintain momentum in campaigns.

• Byron Donalds [35:16]: "Politics at its core has not left the Roman Coliseum. It's about competition and winning the crowd."

8. Relationships Within the Republican Party

The conversation touches upon Byron's relationships with other Republican leaders, including Governor Ron DeSantis and Senator Rick Scott.

• Byron Donalds [19:25]: "DeSantis has done a great job. The governor has built upon Rick Scott's work, making Florida the best state in the country."

Byron praises DeSantis' governance and underscores the importance of building on the Republican foundation to further Florida's progress.

9. Future Political Ambitions

Towards the end of the episode, Byron reflects on his future in politics, expressing both ambition and caution.

• Kyle Forgeard [54:40]: "Do you ever see yourself running for president one day?"

• Byron Donalds [54:40]: "I can't see that far right now. I'm focused on doing this... If God opens those doors, then you make that decision."

Byron remains focused on his current role and responsibilities, leaving open the possibility of future endeavors based on circumstances and divine guidance.

10. Closing Remarks and Anecdotes

The episode concludes with light-hearted exchanges and personal anecdotes, showcasing Byron's approachable nature and sense of humor.

• Byron Donalds [46:24]: "There's nothing even like this. He pulls up in the sanitation vest and owns it."

He shares memorable moments from his interactions with President Trump, illustrating the former president's unorthodox yet impactful demeanor.

Conclusion

Episode 155 of the Full Send Podcast offers listeners an in-depth look into Byron Donalds' political philosophy, his unwavering stance on critical issues, and his strategic approach to governance and campaigning. Byron's journey from a Democrat to a key Republican figure underscores his commitment to conservative principles and his vision for a prosperous Florida. His candid reflections and forthright opinions provide valuable insights into the current political climate and the future trajectory of the Republican Party.

Notable Quotes:

• Byron Donalds [03:23]: "If you're going to be a sanctuary city, you shouldn't get federal money, because sanctuary status is against federal law."

• Byron Donalds [24:10]: "I didn't vote for Barack Obama in '08. I didn't agree with him even though I was a Democrat. I voted for John McCain."

• Byron Donalds [28:10]: "We are as close to a meritocracy as we've ever been."

• Byron Donalds [35:14]: "Politics at its core has not left the Roman Coliseum. It's about competition and winning the crowd."

• Byron Donalds [54:40]: "I can't see [running for president] far right now. I'm focused on doing this and enjoying life."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of Byron Donalds' discussion on the Full Send Podcast, highlighting his political stance, personal experiences, and aspirations. For those seeking to understand the intricacies of his political ideology and strategies, this episode serves as a valuable resource.