At a time when 62% of U.S. adults argue that Republicans and Democrats are doing a poor job, suggesting that a third party is necessary in the political discourse, voters could be averting their eyes to Independent and Libertarian candidates. In Florida, as the race for Governor becomes more tense, Scott Jewett has announced his candidacy, embracing a “Libertarian 2.0” approach.
The Libertarian Party, founded in 1971, promotes as a cornerstone of its philosophy the “non-aggression principle,” stating that no force or threat of force should be used against an individual’s person or property. Citing government as an initiator of force, Libertarians argue for minimal government intervention.
The “Libertarian 2.0” approach, according to Jewett’s “Full Slate” policy plan, promises to employ a more nuanced form of governing.
“We respect the importance of social programs, acknowledging their role in supporting vulnerable communities," the plan reads. "Our conservative fiscal policies ensure responsible government spending, aligning with the Republican emphasis on economic prudence.”
In a video announcing his candidacy, Jewett, a Boca Raton resident, highlighted Florida’s insurance system, calling it “a disaster.”
“$43 billion dollars in premiums were paid last year alone, and only $7 Billion was paid out for homeowner’s repairs, so we paid six times more than we got back,” Jewett commented. “I’ve spent my career solving grand challenges, changing organizations, and innovating solutions. I’ll bring this same diligence to our governor’s office.”
Among his core policies are embracing a diverse electorate by appealing to Republicans, Democrats, and others.
Jewett supports "essential social programs" for those in need, and promises to “advocate for a streamlined, efficient government, low taxes, and a free-market economy that stimulates growth and innovation.”
As Florida Governor, he plans to address homeowners’ insurance reform, law enforcement reform, infrastructure efficiency, and immigration, a hot button topic across the country.
Sharing his appreciation of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' (R) efforts to address illegal immigration, Jewett vows to “enforce immigration laws stringently and deter companies from hiring undocumented workers.” He also emphasizes a reform focused on work visas, calling for "a streamlined and expanded work visa program that balances the need for immigrant labor with concerns about illegal immigration, appealing to both pro-immigration progressives and conservatives who emphasize legal immigration processes."
His plan includes tackling “controversial” issues like support for school choice, an environmental policy focused on property rights, and criminal justice reform, “including the elimination of mandatory minimum sentences, reforming cash bail, and ending private prisons.” Jewett also believes in a non-interventionist foreign policy, focusing instead on “Florida’s interests and avoiding entanglement in unnecessary conflicts.”
Rep. Byron Donalds (R) is the current frontrunner in the Republican primary, and he has received President Donald Trump's (R) endorsement for the post. However, Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins (R) and Azoria CEO James Fishback have yet to announce their expected candidacies, which could impact Rep. Donalds from claiming the nomination.
Across the aisle, former Rep. David Jolly (D), once a Republican, now seeks to govern Florida as a Democrat. Though Rep. Jolly was running unopposed, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings (D) entered the race earlier this month, noting that "Florida Democrats are unimpressed with David Jolly's Charlie Crist impersonation."
