On Tuesday, November 3rd, Florida voters head to the polls to select a new governor, following the end of Republican Ron DeSantis's term. The primary contenders are Congressman Byron Donalds, a Republican endorsed by former President Donald Trump, and David Jolly, a former Republican congressman now running as a Democrat.
This election will determine whether Republicans continue their longstanding control of the governor's office or if Democrats can reclaim the position. DeSantis is finishing his second consecutive term, rendering him ineligible for immediate re-election.
Both candidates made their final appeals for votes on election day. Donalds voted in Collier County with his family and encouraged state residents to participate in the election, as reported by Local 10.
Housing Insurance and Tax Plans: Diverging Proposals
The cost of housing and homeowner insurance has been a pivotal issue in the campaign. Donalds advocates for insurance market reforms, expansion of programs to fortify homes against hurricanes, and reduction of certain state-imposed surcharges. Additionally, he aims to expedite construction permits to drive down the costs of new developments.
Conversely, Jolly suggests establishing a state hurricane damage coverage fund, taking on more of the risks currently shouldered by private insurers. He argues this could lower premiums, despite debates on his financial estimates and the system's funding. CBS Miami scrutinized both candidates' insurance proposals during the campaign.
They also differ on Amendment 3, which is up for a vote and seeks to broaden the property tax exemption for primary residences. Donalds supports it, whereas Jolly opposes it due to potential impacts on local government revenue, advocating instead for more targeted tax relief for first-time homebuyers and seniors.
Education and Data Centers: Contrasting Visions
In education, Donalds wants to expand school choice and ensure educational funds follow the student. In contrast, Jolly aims to boost investment in public schools, increase teacher salaries, and enforce stricter standards on private institutions receiving public funds.
Another contentious issue is the development of large data centers linked to artificial intelligence. Jolly proposes a one-year moratorium on new facilities while assessing their impact on energy, water use, and local communities. Donalds believes location decisions should largely rest with local authorities, with oversight on consumption and costs. News4JAX provided detailed coverage of both positions.
Impact of Miami and the Cuban-American Community
The Republican ticket has strong ties to South Florida: Donalds chose state Senator Bryan Ávila, a Hialeah native and son of Cuban immigrants, as his running mate. Jolly, meanwhile, is running with former Democratic Congresswoman Gwen Graham, according to the state's official candidate list.
Immigration policy has also been a focal point in the campaign. In an interview with CiberCuba, Jolly pledged to urge the Trump administration to expedite Cuban residency applications under the Cuban Adjustment Act. Donalds has emphasized his support for the president and advocated for maintaining Republican policies in Florida.
In addition to Donalds and Jolly, the ballot features other candidates, including Libertarian Scott Eckhard Jewett and several independents, as stated by the Florida Division of Elections.
Polling Insights and Result Timings
Recent polls have indicated a variable Republican lead. A Stetson University poll, conducted from October 26 to 30, placed Donalds at 51% and Jolly at 45% among likely voters. A subsequent review by RedBox Research on November 2 reduced the gap to 47.1% versus 46.1%, within the margin of error. This latest study was funded by the super PAC A Fight Worth Having and used interview data from October 30 and 31, not a new round.
Polling stations will close at 7:00 p.m. local time in each county. Due to Florida's two time zones, the state portal Florida Election Watch will start releasing preliminary statewide results at 8:00 p.m. Miami time. Election tallies and major races can be followed through CiberCuba's Florida governor election special.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida's Gubernatorial Election
Who are the main candidates in the Florida Governor's race?
The main candidates are Byron Donalds, a Republican Congressman, and David Jolly, a former Republican congressman now running as a Democrat.
What are the major issues in this election?
Key issues include housing insurance costs, tax plans, education policies, and the impact of data centers on local communities.
How are the candidates addressing education?
Donalds supports expanding school choice and educational fund mobility, while Jolly wants increased public school investment and teacher salary improvements.
What is Amendment 3 about?
Amendment 3 proposes to expand the property tax exemption for primary residences. Donalds supports it, whereas Jolly opposes it, citing potential revenue impacts for local governments.