Pro-Israel candidates to battle for Florida governor's office

Florida voters will choose between two staunchly pro-Israel candidates for governor in November: Republican Byron Donalds and Democrat David Jolly. Both secured victories in their respective primaries Tuesday night, positioning them to vie for the state's top office. The Associated Press called both races shortly after polls closed, with Donalds winning the GOP primary with 48.6% of the vote and Jolly taking the Democratic primary with 61.5%.

Donalds, who has represented Florida in Washington since 2019, earned an endorsement from President Donald Trump. He has expressed support for decisive action against Iran, stating, "Peace is achieved through strength, not weakness." Donalds would be Florida's first Black governor if elected. However, he voted against the Antisemitism Awareness Act in 2024, citing concerns about the bill being rushed and its unclear language, though he affirmed his commitment to Israel and combating antisemitism.

Jolly, a former Republican Representative for Florida from 2014-2017, transitioned to the Democratic party, distancing himself from Donald Trump. He is set to replace Governor Ron DeSantis, who is term-limited. DeSantis has been a prominent supporter of Israel, notably being the first Florida governor to visit the West Bank and advocating against the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement. He also signed legislation protecting Florida's Jewish community and celebrated Israel's 75th independence anniversary.

Both candidates are expected to continue Florida's strong pro-Israel policy. Donalds has echoed DeSantis's support for military action against Iran, while Jolly has warned against the dangers associated with Iran. The election will determine the direction of Florida's foreign policy engagement, particularly concerning the Middle East.

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Peace is achieved through strength, not weakness. I stand with President Trump, our military, and the hope this leads to lasting security in the Middle East.