Florida’s Morgan & Morgan founder skips governor bid, puts $100K behind new party
ORLANDO, Fla. (CBS12) — Orlando legal professional and political megadonor John Morgan says he’s not working for Florida governor in 2026, however he’s nonetheless making an attempt to reshape the state’s political panorama, this time by launching a brand-new political party and providing a $100,000 prize to whoever comes up along with his title.
Morgan, the founder of the nationwide personal-injury agency Morgan & Morganmade the announcement in a video posted Monday on X, ending months of hypothesis about whether or not the billboard-famous lawyer would soar into Florida’s open gubernatorial race. Instead, Morgan stated he plans to file paperwork within the coming days to type a 3rd party in Florida, arguing that the state’s two-party system not displays the views of most voters.
“For about the last year and a half, a lot of people have been asking me to run for governor,” Morgan stated within the video. “It’s a real honor. But I’m not going to do it.” He stated his previous work backing statewide poll initiatives achieved extra for Floridians than he believes he might obtain as governor.
Morgan has performed a central function in a few of Florida’s most consequential poll fights over the past decade, bankrolling campaigns to legalize medical marijuana and to boost the state’s minimal wage to $15 an hour. Both initiatives handed regardless of Florida’s excessive 60% threshold for constitutional amendments, cementing Morgan’s fame as one of the crucial influential political financiers within the state.
In latest years, Morgan has repeatedly floated the thought of working for governor — together with in 2018 and once more forward of the 2026 election — however finally determined the job itself was not a superb match. In his video, he joked in regards to the calls for of campaigning and governing, saying he prefers spending time with household and sustaining a life-style that may be incompatible with the workplace.
While ruling out a run, Morgan made clear he’s not stepping away from politics. He stated he believes most Floridians agree on way more points than partisan politics counsel and {that a} new party might provide a house for voters who really feel alienated by Democrats and Republicans alike.
If you’re taking the ‘D’ down and the ‘R’ down, we agree on most issues.”
Morgan said he will hold a public contest to name the party, with a $100,000 cash prize for the winning submission. Details about how to enter, how long the contest will last, and how a winner will be chosen have not yet been released. Morgan told Politico that he is working to ensure the contest complies with state and federal laws governing promotions and rewards.
The move comes as Florida prepares for a wide-open governor’s race. Gov. Ron DeSantis is term-limited, and Republican US Rep. Byron Donalds emerged as an early frontrunner after receiving an endorsement from President Trump posting and large fundraising totals. Democrats are additionally lining up behind main contenders, together with former US Rep. David Jolly, whereas different candidates discover unbiased bids.
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As of early 2026, Florida’s voter registration rolls present Republicans with a transparent benefit over Democrats, alongside a quickly rising variety of voters who determine as unbiased or unaffiliated. Political analysts say that actuality helps clarify the attraction, and the problem, of launching a viable third party within the state.
To acquire traction, a new party would wish to finish intensive authorized filings, recruit credible candidates, increase vital funds, and meet poll entry necessities throughout Florida’s 67 counties. Even with Morgan’s wealth and title recognition, specialists warning that constructing a aggressive political party from scratch is a long-term endeavor.
Morgan has careworn that his effort isn’t tied to nationwide third-party actions similar to No Labels and that he intends for the party to be distinctly Floridian in its focus. He has additionally stated he expects to proceed donating to candidates from each main events whereas the new group takes form.
For now, Morgan says his objective is to spark a broader dialog about political polarization, beginning with a reputation that captures the party’s mission.
“I believe what ails us is the two-party system,” Morgan stated. “And I think Florida could be the place where something new begins.”
