Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is set to host the televised debates for the 2026 state general elections, where voters will decide on Ron DeSantis' successor as governor and the senator who will finish the term left vacant by Marco Rubio.
The nonpartisan "Decision 2026: Before YOU Vote" series organizers announced on Tuesday that the federal Senate debate is scheduled for October 13, while the gubernatorial debate will occur on October 15. Both events are set to begin at 7:00 p.m. and will be broadcast across Florida's ten television markets from the FAU campus in Boca Raton, according to Gulf Coast News.
This year's elections signal the end of Ron DeSantis' tenure, as he will vacate the office on January 5, 2027, due to state constitutional term limits preventing a third consecutive term.
A Tight Race for Governor
Within the Republican camp, Congressman Byron Donalds is leading the polls with up to 46% voter support, backed by former President Donald Trump, who has lauded him as "a truly great and powerful governor."
Donalds faces competition from Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins, former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, and businessman James Fishback. Should Donalds win in November, he would become Florida's first Black Republican governor.
On the Democratic side, prominent contenders include former Congressman David Jolly and Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings.
Special Senate Election
The Senate debate pertains to a special election to complete the remaining two years of Marco Rubio's term. Rubio resigned in January 2025 after being appointed Secretary of State by President Trump.
Following Rubio's departure, DeSantis appointed former Attorney General Ashley Moody as an interim senator. Moody now aims to secure her position and leads the Republican polls with between 43% and 50% support.
Among Democrats, retired Lieutenant Colonel Alex Vindman, known for his role in Trump's first impeachment trial, stands out. Vindman's campaign raised $1.7 million in its first 24 hours.
Debate Participation Criteria
Both parties will hold their primaries on August 18, with the general election set for November 3, 2026.
To qualify for the October debates, candidates must attain at least 12.5% support in a Mason-Dixon Polling survey conducted in September, which includes the poll's margin of error.
The debates will be moderated by WPBF anchor Todd McDermott, accompanied by a panel of two journalists. In addition to television broadcasts, Florida Public Media will air them on public radio, a Spanish-language version will be available, and they will be nationally rebroadcast through C-SPAN.
"An informed electorate is essential to a strong democracy, and these debates provide voters with the opportunity to hear directly from the candidates on the issues that matter most to them," stated Carolyn Nolte, president and CEO of the Florida Press Association.
Key Questions About Florida's Upcoming Elections
When are the Florida state general election debates scheduled?
The debates are scheduled for October 13 for the Senate and October 15 for the governor's race, both starting at 7:00 p.m.
Who are the leading candidates for Florida's governor and Senate seats?
For governor, Byron Donalds leads the Republican candidates, while David Jolly and Jerry Demings are key Democratic contenders. For the Senate, Ashley Moody leads the Republicans, and Alex Vindman is notable among Democrats.