Republican Endorsements Shift Toward Democrat David Jolly in Florida Governor Race

In the wake of the Republican primary that produced Rep. Byron Donalds as the GOP nominee, a handful of Florida Republicans have publicly backed Democratic candidate David Jolly. Disaster-relief nonprofit founder Bobby Williams, city-councilman Austin Gravley of Frostproof, and Manatee County commissioner George Kruse—all longtime Republicans—have each announced support for Jolly, citing concerns over data-center development, rising costs of living and perceived erosion of local authority.

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Florida’s governorship has been held by Republicans for 27 years. Registered Republicans outnumber Democrats by roughly 1.5 million, so Jolly’s campaign depends on winning independents and defectors. Williams’ platform during the primary emphasized preserving agricultural land and limiting new development, especially data centers that have proliferated since the pandemic. Jolly has pledged a statewide moratorium on data-center construction and has refused corporate contributions, positioning himself as a “person over party” alternative.

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• Jolly’s campaign announced the moratorium pledge and a ban on corporate donations.

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• Williams reiterated his message at a press conference, stating his focus remains “We the People” versus “We the Lobbyists” and “We the Big Corporations.” “My message hasn’t changed; it’s back to ‘We the People’ instead of ‘We the Lobbyists’ and ‘We the Big Corporations,’” — Bobby Williams

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Some of his followers reacted sharply, with one commenting, “You are insane,” and expressing regret over his vote.

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A recent Florida voter survey described the race as essentially tied, and multiple polls have shown Jolly gaining momentum despite the GOP’s registration advantage. The emerging Republican defections are linked by analysts to voter discontent over rising gas prices, grocery costs, the war in Iran and lingering backlash against former President Trump’s influence.

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