Florida gubernatorial candidate Paul Renner (R) detailed three key policy positions he is looking to address to help improve the state's overall affordability in a recent campaign video on social media. Renner, who announced his candidacy in September, was previously Florida's Speaker of the House for the 2022-2024 legislative term.
"People are hurting financially, and politicians just keep playing games," Renner said in the 14-second spot. "We need to cut property taxes now. Lower insurance costs. And stop foreign workers from taking Florida jobs. Let's make Florida affordable again."
More specifically, Renner called for a pause on H-1B visas in another video post. H-1B visas allow employers to hire foreign professionals temporarily with a bachelor's degree or equivalent to work in specialty occupations, such as IT specialists, engineers, or scientists.
"Young people today that graduate tell me that they do not believe the American dream is there for them anymore. And one problem are H-1B visas," Renner said. They graduate from a university, did everything they were supposed to do, and can't find a job because we're importing other people from overseas and paying them less money."
"This has got to stop," Renner continued. "As governor of the free State of Florida, I will call on Congress to pause those visas entirely so that we can protect American workers. We have to put America and Florida first."
Renner's plans come as he mounts an uphill campaign for governor against established Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) and political newcomer James Fishback. According to one recent poll, Renner is barely registering against his Republican challengers.
However, Renner reportedly has some money in the bank, making his bid entirely possible with a heavy war chest. As we know in politics, having money can go a long way in determining the life expectancy of a campaign, and Renner appears to be okay for the time being.
Renner also made news in calling for the resignation of U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) and U.S. Rep. Corey Mills (R-FL) from Congress over separate controversies earlier this month.
The GOP gubernatorial primary election is Aug. 18, 2026. The general election is set for Nov. 3, 2026.
