Key facts
- David Jolly, a former Republican, is running for Florida governor as a Democrat.
- Jolly is attempting to demonstrate that Florida can still be a competitive political battleground.
- He faces a significant fundraising disadvantage against his likely Republican opponent, Byron Donalds.
- Jolly's campaign focuses on economic issues, while Donalds' campaign highlights social and cultural differences.
- Democrats have seen some success in recent special elections in Florida.
- Jolly believes a win in Florida could significantly impact national Democratic prospects.
David Jolly, a former Republican now running as a Democrat for Florida governor, is campaigning to prove that the state can still be a political battleground. He faces skepticism from voters, including one who questioned if he would "become another John Fetterman," and a significant fundraising gap against his likely Republican opponent, Rep. Byron Donalds.
Jolly, who once critiqued politicians as an MSNBC pundit, is attempting to bridge ideological divides by emphasizing core values such as an economy that works for everyone, government's role in improving lives, and the right to protection. He acknowledges the political challenges, particularly on social issues like transgender participation in sports, stating that while he doesn't believe in biologically born men playing in competitive women's sports, he also doesn't think governors should intervene in local youth leagues.
Despite the headwinds, Jolly's campaign is trying to capitalize on potential Republican fatigue with culture war issues, citing examples like the feud with Disney and debates over gender and sexual orientation. Democrats point to recent special election victories and potential shifts in Latino voter sentiment as signs of opportunity. Former GOP Rep. Carlos Curbelo suggested a scenario where the race could be competitive.
Jolly argues that a Democratic victory in Florida would have national implications, potentially reshaping the road to the White House and the composition of the House of Representatives. State Rep. Emily Gregory echoed this sentiment, calling it "deeply, deeply unwise" to abandon Florida and expressing confidence in a competitive November election. Florida Democratic Party chair Nikki Fried acknowledged the party's past struggles but is focused on rebuilding operations.
While Democratic Governors Association chair Andy Beshear is watching Jolly's campaign closely and calls him a "good candidate," he has not yet made a financial commitment. Donalds' campaign, meanwhile, remains confident, with communications director Gates McGavick stating that Florida voters will reject Jolly's "radical liberal" platform.