David Jolly, the Democratic contender for governor in Florida, declared on Sunday that he would not engage in debates with his Republican opponent, Byron Donalds, before the November 3 elections. This announcement follows weeks of disputes between the two campaigns over the logistics and conditions for such events.
This decision marks a shift from Jolly's earlier stance. Just days prior, he had publicly expressed willingness to debate Donalds in a setting deemed constructive.
However, on Sunday, Jolly made his new position clear through social media, stating, "You can't debate a liar."
He included a video snippet from a television interview where he was questioned about debating Donalds. Shortly thereafter, his campaign officially stated he would not partake in the debates, citing "repeated lies" and "bad faith" from his opponent—accusations that Donalds denies.
"Given the current campaign climate, characterized by Byron's repeated falsehoods and lack of good faith, these debates would not foster a constructive and honest dialogue but rather fuel more division and animosity," Jolly said in a statement reported by the Tampa Bay Times.
The Breakdown of Debate Arrangements
The decision comes after several weeks of mutual accusations between the campaigns regarding the hindrance of debate arrangements.
In early September, Jolly claimed that Donalds withdrew from a joint appearance scheduled at the Tampa Tiger Bay Club. A board member confirmed to Florida Phoenix that while the Republican campaign initially agreed to a joint presentation, they later requested separate appearances and eventually informed that Donalds would not attend.
A source within the Republican campaign provided a different account, stating that Donalds' participation was never confirmed on his schedule.
Jolly had also agreed to a moderated event with CBS Miami journalist Jim DeFede. As of September 17, during a CNN interview, the Democrat still supported the idea of a meeting with Donalds.
Republican Proposal and Democratic Rejection
The situation shifted abruptly. On Friday, Donalds' campaign accepted three debate proposals: September 29 at Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, October 13 with News4Jax in North Florida, and October 22 with Telemundo and NBC 6 in South Florida. The Republicans suggested a format featuring two podiums, no audience, and a focus on policy discussions.
"Floridians deserve to see these two candidates side by side and hear what their plans are as governor," stated Ryan Smith, Donalds' chief strategist.
Jolly's campaign countered that they were not consulted about these dates. "We found out through a press release," the Democrat remarked, initially considering the proposals. His advisors noted, "The terms of when and where we debate won't be dictated by Byron Donalds."
Two days later, Jolly decided against participating in any debates.
Focus on Grassroots Engagement
This clash echoes a primary season where Donalds refused debate requests from Republican rivals while solidifying his candidacy for governor. Jolly has used this history to criticize the Republican's demands and remains committed to direct voter engagement.
According to his campaign, Jolly has attended over 300 community meetings and assemblies over the past 18 months. He plans to continue hosting in-person and virtual events in the remaining weeks.
The absence of a gubernatorial debate is not an isolated incident this year. Other candidates for state and federal positions in Florida have also avoided debates amid mutual accusations of dodging invitations.
The dispute unfolds as recent polls indicate a tight race between the candidates, though figures vary by survey and remain within margins of error.
Donalds and Jolly are vying to succeed Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, who is barred from seeking a third consecutive term.
Jolly expressed his intent to spend the final six weeks of the campaign traveling across Florida and engaging with both Republican and Democratic voters.
"I look forward to the last six weeks of this campaign, traveling the state and meeting voters in their communities," he concluded.
Key Questions About the Florida Governor Race
Why did David Jolly refuse to debate Byron Donalds?
Jolly declined to debate Donalds, citing what he describes as "repeated lies" and "bad faith" from his opponent, which he believes would make any debate unproductive and divisive.
What were the proposed debate dates and locations?
The proposed debates were scheduled for September 29 at Florida A&M University, October 13 with News4Jax, and October 22 with Telemundo and NBC 6, all in various Florida locations.
How is David Jolly engaging with voters without debates?
Jolly is focusing on grassroots engagement, having participated in over 300 community meetings and assemblies, and plans to continue hosting events to connect directly with voters.