PHOTO VIA MAYOR DEMINGS FACEBOOK PAGE
“I remain committed to serving the citizens of Orange County for the final six months of my mayoral term. My prostate cancer was caught early and is treatable. I appreciate your continued support and prayers.“
– ORANGE COUNTY MAYOR JERRY DEMINGS
Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings suspended his 2026 gubernatorial campaign this past Friday after being diagnosed with prostate cancer. Demings announced the decision following his final State of the County address on June 5, saying he learned of the diagnosis earlier in the week.
“I received some bad news from my doctor, who confirmed that I have prostate cancer,” Demings said. “And because of that, I’m going to suspend my campaign for governor.”
Demings said in a statement that “continuing to run for governor would have likely led to injurious effects on my prognosis. I am a fighter through and through, and now is the time to fight cancer and be there for my loved ones.” He will continue serving as Orange County mayor through his term, which ends in November.
Demings has spent 45 years in public service, serving as Orlando police chief and Orange County sheriff before becoming mayor in 2018. He was the first African American elected to the position and was reelected in 2022.
He entered the gubernatorial race in November 2025 as a Democrat, competing against former U.S. Rep. David Jolly and Republican candidates including Byron Donalds. Through March 31, 2026, Demings had raised just over $658,000, the third most of any candidate in the race.
Jolly responded to Demings’ announcement by saying “Jerry has dedicated his life to public service, fighting with passion, mettle, and faith” and wishing him “a full recovery.”
