A Democratic ticket seeking to break the GOP’s decades-long hold on Florida’s governor’s mansion says affordability, housing and education will be at the center of its campaign.
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Former Congressman David Jolly recently selected former Congresswoman Gwen Graham as his running mate, becoming the first major gubernatorial candidate to announce a lieutenant governor pick in the 2026 race.
Why did David Jolly choose Gwen Graham as his running mate?
Jolly said he wanted more than a traditional lieutenant governor candidate.
“I wanted to find a governing partner capable of being governor of the state, not just lieutenant governor,” Jolly said.
Graham said she joined the ticket because she believes Florida is headed in the wrong direction and wants to help reverse that trend.
What issues do Jolly and Graham say are driving their campaign?
The pair pointed to housing affordability, healthcare costs, education and economic challenges facing Floridians.
Jolly argued that while parts of Florida’s economy are thriving, rising costs are leaving many residents behind.
“Without real sober policy changes in housing, healthcare and education, too many people are getting left behind,” he said.
Where do they stand on eliminating property taxes?
Both candidates said they are waiting to see the final language of any proposed constitutional amendment dealing with property taxes.
Jolly suggested Florida may need a more localized approach to homestead exemptions, allowing counties and cities facing soaring property values to offer greater tax relief than areas with lower housing costs.
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What changes would they support for congressional redistricting?
Graham said she would be open to exploring an independent redistricting commission to draw political boundaries.
She argued that voters should have more meaningful choices in general elections rather than having many races effectively decided during party primaries.
Jolly also voiced support for independent redistricting commissions, saying they could help ensure broader representation across Florida communities.
What are their views on Cuba?
Jolly said he wants to see political change in Cuba and believes the Cuban people should have greater freedoms and economic opportunities.
Graham said Cuba should not be treated as a political tool and that policymakers should focus on solutions that benefit both Cubans and South Florida’s Cuban-American community.
Can Democrats win the governor’s race in Florida?
It has been more than 25 years since a Democrat won Florida’s governor’s race.
Despite Florida’s Republican voter-registration advantage, Jolly said he believes voter frustration over economic concerns and government issues could create an opportunity for change in 2026.
What’s next for the campaign?
Jolly and Graham are holding a rally at Florida International University in Miami Thursday evening before making campaign stops in Tampa and Orlando.
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Florida’s primary election is scheduled for Aug. 18.