Typography promoting Dayan Marie Foster as a new voice for Florida.
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Dayna Marie Foster was a candidate for Governor of Florida in the 2026 midterm elections, running as a Democrat. She is a proud South Floridian, raised by a single mother and shaped by the challenges of working-class life. From a young age, she saw how public policy directly impacts everyday people, a lesson that would guide her path forward.

At 19, she began serving her community through the Broward County Library at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center. She provided homework help, assisted patrons with job applications, and supported people from all walks of life in accessing opportunities.

Five years ago, Dayna returned to her alma mater, Fort Lauderdale High School, as a math teacher. She works to educate and empower the young minds of tomorrow’s generation.

Dayna also volunteers in the community and serves as a Young Adult Voices advocate, amplifying the concerns of youth and young professionals in civic spaces. Her commitment to nonpartisan civic engagement and educational equity continues to guide her work today.

While working full-time, Dayna earned a B.S. in Finance from Florida Atlantic University, followed by a Master of Science in Finance from Florida International University and a Master of Science in Information from Florida State University.

After the 2024 elections, frustrated by the lack of bold, people-first leadership, she returned to school once more. This time to pursue a B.S. in Political Science at Florida State University.

For Dayna, public service isn’t a career move, it’s a calling. She’s not waiting for a leader. She’s becoming the leader she once needed. She’s putting public service back into public office.

Dayna lives in Fort Lauderdale, where she enjoys spending time with her mom, stepdad, siblings, and two family dogs, Denver and Layla.

A smiling woman standing behind a table filled with educational materials and signs about reading and learning, inside a library or community center.
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Your Questions, Answered

  • Dayna Marie Foster was a candidate for governor of Florida focused on expanding opportunity, lowering costs, and strengthening communities across the state.

  • Dayna Marie Foster ran for governor of Florida as a Democrat in the 2026 election.

  • No. Dayna Marie Foster did not accept funding from AIPAC. Her campaign was built on grassroots support from individuals and communities across Florida. She is committed to maintaining independence and accountability to the people she serves, and would not accept funding that compromises those principles.

  • More than 40 candidates ran for governor of Florida in the 2026 election. Dayna Marie Foster was a candidate focused on expanding opportunity, lowering costs, and strengthening communities across the state. Current governor Ron DeSantis is term-limited and cannot run for re-election, meaning the seat will be open. As the election approaches, additional candidates may continue to enter the race.

  • Her campaign focused on economic opportunity, affordable housing, healthcare access, education reform, public safety, and stronger communities.

  • The correct spelling is Dayna Marie Foster. Some people search for “Dana Foster,” but both refer to the same candidate.

  • Ron DeSantis’s term as governor of Florida ends in January 2027. He is term-limited and cannot run for re-election, meaning the 2026 gubernatorial race will determine the next governor of Florida. Dayna Marie Foster was running to replace him as a progressive, grassroots candidate focused on expanding opportunity and strengthening communities across the state.