Watch: Instead of Simply Celebrating Dem Wins, MSNOW Attacks FL Gov-Elect Byron Donalds, Claiming He Isn’t Black

MSNOW host Symone Sanders Townsend suggested that Florida’s first Black governor-elect, Byron Donalds, is not representative of his race due to his conservative politics, drawing criticism for equating Blackness with adherence to Democratic thought. While Sanders Townsend’s comments were seen by some as denigrating Black conservatives, other Black Democrats celebrated Donalds’ historic victory, emphasizing his vision for Florida over his race or party affiliation.

• MSNOW host Symone Sanders Townsend questioned Florida’s first Black governor-elect, Byron Donalds, stating “all kinfolk ain’t skinfolk” and implying his conservative politics meant he would continue an “anti-black agenda.”
• Critics accused Sanders Townsend of making racist remarks and perpetuating a narrative that blackness is incompatible with conservatism.
• Florida Democrats, including Gainesville City Commissioner Cynthia Chesnut, celebrated Donalds’ historic win, endorsing him based on his campaign philosophy and vision for the state.
• Gainesville City Commissioner Cynthia Chesnut stated, “Our day has come. Our time has come. This is a new day,” and emphasized that Donalds’ vision, not his skin color, qualifies him to be governor.