Over Memorial Day weekend, voters gathered at Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ for a thoughtful and engaging town hall conversation featuring former U.S. Representative David Jolly, moderated by Books & Books founder Mitchell Kaplan. The event was part of Jolly’s ongoing tour across the state as he explores a potential run for Governor of Florida in 2026.

A fifth-generation Floridian and former congressman from the Tampa Bay area, Jolly spoke at length about his personal and political evolution—and why he believes Florida is at a pivotal moment.

“We are in a crisis—not just a crisis of policy, but a crisis of character,” Jolly said. “It’s not about right versus left anymore. It’s about right versus wrong.”

The event was not a formal campaign launch, but it offered attendees an opportunity to hear Jolly’s positions on a wide range of issues, including education, gun safety, housing affordability, and coalition-building across party lines. His message struck a tone of urgency—combined with optimism.

A Focus on Values and Shared Concerns

Jolly addressed many of the concerns Floridians have voiced over the last few years:

• The increasing cost of housing, insurance, and basic living

• Ongoing threats to public education and academic freedom

• Rising gun violence and partisan polarization

• A lack of investment in clean energy and infrastructure

In response to these challenges, Jolly called for pragmatic, people-centered solutions. He emphasized his support for public schools, teacher pay increases, housing reform, and stronger environmental protections.

“People should be able to live in the communities where they work,” he said. “That’s the Florida we need to build.”

On the issue of gun safety, Jolly acknowledged his own transformation since his days in Congress. Once aligned with the NRA, he now advocates for comprehensive background checks, licensing, and safe storage laws.

“We can protect the children and grandchildren of gun owners just as much as we protect those who don’t own firearms.”

A Message of Inclusion and Coalition

Throughout the evening, Jolly returned to one theme: building a coalition. He called for a statewide effort that unites Democrats, independents, and former Republicans around shared values—such as dignity, opportunity, and economic fairness.

“We can’t win with Democrats alone,” he said. “But we can build a coalition that includes independents and common-sense conservatives who want a better future for this state.”

He also addressed his departure from the Republican Party with clarity:

“Charlie Crist used to say, ‘I didn’t leave the Republican Party—the party left me.’ But I’m different. David Jolly left the Republican Party. I’ve changed my mind on issues. I’ve grown.”

Jolly spoke openly about his support for reproductive freedom, LGBTQ+ rights, and voting rights—many of which he said have been undermined by current leadership in Tallahassee.

A Call to Civic Engagement

As the town hall concluded, Jolly asked attendees for something simple—not donations or campaign volunteers, but belief.

“Before five dollars, before volunteering, what I ask is that you believe,” he said. “Believe that Florida can change course. Believe that together, we can build a state that lifts up every family and every community.”

While Jolly has not yet formally declared his candidacy, events like this are giving voters across Florida a chance to hear from a potential gubernatorial candidate and to engage in meaningful, forward-looking discussions about the future of the state.

Stay Engaged

The Miami-Dade Democratic Party remains committed to informing the public about important civic events and fostering dialogue about Florida’s future. We do not endorse candidates prior to the primary, but we encourage all voters to stay informed, attend events, and participate in building a stronger, more inclusive Florida.

To stay updated on events and local issues, continue to visit us at www.miamidadedems.org or follow us on social media @MiamiDadeDems.

Sign up for email updates, and join us at county and local club meetings to learn how to get more involved.