Key Takeaways:
- David Jolly is running for governor of Florida as a Democrat, aiming to break the GOP’s statewide winning streak.
- Jolly, a former Republican and independent, has evolved politically and believes Florida is ready for change in 2026.
- He plans to focus on building trust and coalitions, especially with independent voters.
- Jolly faces challenges, including skepticism from Republicans and comparisons to past failed Democratic campaigns.
A New Challenger Emerges in Florida Politics
Florida’s political landscape just got more interesting. David Jolly, a former Republican turned Democrat, has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the 2026 gubernatorial race. He’s the first major Democratic candidate to enter the race, aiming to succeed term-limited Gov. Ron DeSantis.
At 52, Jolly is no stranger to politics. Once a self-described “George H.W. Bush Republican,” he served in Congress from 2014 to 2017. But over the years, he’s shifted his views dramatically, leaving the GOP in 2018 and only recently joining the Democratic Party.
Why is he running? Jolly believes Florida is ready for a change. The state hasn’t elected a Democrat to a statewide office since 2018, but he’s optimistic that the political environment is shifting.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
Jolly knows the odds are stacked against him. Florida’s voter registration heavily favors Republicans, and Democrats have struggled to win statewide races in recent years. But he’s not daunted.
“We will be in every community, building trust and relationships,” Jolly said. “We’ll create a coalition that can win even in tough conditions.”
His strategy? Focus on independents. Jolly spent years as an independent himself, working with groups like the Serve America Movement and the Forward Party. He believes Democrats have ignored independent voters for too long and wants to change that.
From Republican to Democrat: Jolly’s Political Journey
Jolly’s shift from Republican to Democrat is a unique story. He first won a congressional seat in 2014 as a Republican but lost re-election in 2016 after his district was redrawn to favor Democrats.
In 2018, he left the GOP, calling the party “broken.” He then worked to challenge the two-party system before joining the Democratic Party just six weeks ago.
This evolution has drawn comparisons to Charlie Crist, another former Republican who became a Democrat. Crist ran for governor twice but lost both times.
Jolly’s Platform: Focusing on Florida’s Needs
Jolly’s campaign is centered on practical issues that matter to Floridians. He’s critical of Republican plans to cut property taxes without a clear way to replace lost revenue.
“Cutting taxes without a plan for safe communities and good schools isn’t responsible,” Jolly argues.
He also emphasizes the importance of affordable property insurance and a fair tax system.
The Trump Factor: Does It Even Matter?
Jolly has been a vocal critic of Donald Trump in the past, but he insists this race isn’t about the former president.
“This election is about the people of Florida, not Trump,” Jolly said.
While Trump’s influence looms large in national politics, Jolly is betting that Floridians care more about local issues than national drama.
What Experts Are Saying
University of North Florida political science professor Michael Binder notes that Jolly’s path resembles Crist’s journey. Both are former Republicans who turned to the Democratic Party in hopes of winning statewide office.
But Binder also points out that Jason Pizzo, another potential candidate, could split the moderate vote if he runs as an independent.
Meanwhile, Florida Republicans are already dismissing Jolly’s chances.
“David Jolly has no platform, no base, and no chance in Florida,” said Republican Party Chairman Evan Power.
Can Jolly Win?
Jolly’s biggest hurdle is proving he can unite Democrats and independents. His campaign’s success will depend on whether he can build trust and show Floridians that he’s the change they need.
“If we focus on responsible governance and solving real problems, we can win,” Jolly said confidently.
Only time will tell if his strategy works. For now, Jolly is ready to hit the ground running, determined to make history in Florida.