Democratic gubernatorial candidate David Jolly is seizing the momentum after Democrats dominated in this week's general elections, saying Florida could be next to flip in a post-election night message on social media.
"After a big night in Virginia and New Jersey, I have a simple message: Florida is next," Jolly expressed. "That's right, in this moment, Democrats across the nation understand it's not whether we're going left or going right, it's whether we're lifting everybody up."
Democrat Mikie Sherrill defeated Republican Jack Ciattarelli in New Jersey's governor race, while Democrat Abigail Spanberger beat Republican Winsome Earle-Sears in Virginia's governor race.
Looking to build on the positive night, Jolly alluded to growing concerns among Americans on affordability, suggesting it could be the winning factor in flipping Florida blue next fall.
Democrats have not elected a governor in the Sunshine State since 1994.
"In the Sunshine State, we're building a coalition to fight for affordable housing for everyone, access to quality health care, and excellence in education," Jolly said. "And we're making sure that economy works for everyone, regardless of the color of your skin, where you were born, who you love, or who you worship."
Jolly, who announced his run for governor in June, outlined a plan to reinvest in Florida's education system back in August. He also detailed several other positions in an interview with The Floridian just after his launch.
The former Republican congressman is hoping many of those plans strike the right message with voters, and end GOP dominance in the state.
"Those are our democratic values, but they're so much bigger than our party, and that's how we win," Jolly said.
Florida has had a Republican governor since 1999. The last Democratic governor of the state was Buddy McKay, who finished out the term of Lawton Chiles following his death in December 1998.
Gov. Ron DeSantis is term-limited and cannot run for a third consecutive term. He won his last gubernatorial race by over 19 points.
The gubernatorial election is on Nov. 3, 2026.
