David Jolly, Former Republican, Runs for Florida Governor as Democrat

David Jolly, a former Republican congressman, has officially launched his campaign for Florida governor in 2026 as a Democrat. This move signals a significant shift in the political landscape as Democrats aim to regain ground in the Sunshine State. Jolly's campaign will primarily focus on addressing Florida's affordability crisis, including housing costs, insurance rates, and overall cost of living.

"Florida families are struggling, and our state government isn't doing enough," Jolly stated during his campaign announcement. "We need real solutions to make Florida affordable again, and that's what my campaign will be about."

While Jolly's switch to the Democratic Party represents a notable development, political analysts acknowledge the considerable challenge he faces in a state that has become increasingly Republican in recent years. The 2022 midterm elections saw significant Republican gains in Florida, underscoring the uphill battle for Democrats. However, Jolly hopes his focus on economic issues and his ability to appeal to moderate voters will provide a path to victory. The campaign is expected to heavily emphasize grassroots organizing and targeted outreach to specific demographics across the state. The 2026 Florida gubernatorial election is shaping up to be a closely watched contest with significant implications for the future of the state.