Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Jerry Demings Launches 2026 Florida Governor Bid

His bid sets up a contest with David Jolly, spotlighting affordability as his case for statewide leadership.

Overview

  • He announced Thursday in Orlando after filing with the state, seeking to become Florida’s first Black governor.
  • Demings’ platform includes expanding Medicaid, holding insurers accountable, lowering energy costs, protecting water and the environment, and strengthening public safety.
  • The entry creates a Democratic primary against former U.S. Rep. David Jolly, who publicly welcomed a competitive race.
  • On the Republican side, Trump-endorsed Rep. Byron Donalds and former House Speaker Paul Renner are running in a crowded field.
  • Demings emphasizes decades in law enforcement and county leadership and points to recent clashes with the DeSantis administration over local authority, including an ICE transport dispute.