Florida GOP Declines to Host Gubernatorial Debate Ahead of Primary

The Florida Republican Party has announced two congressional debates scheduled for later this month, which has drawn criticism from Governor Ron DeSantis and other Republican candidates due to the party's decision not to hold a gubernatorial debate. The party decided not to host a debate before the gubernatorial primary on August 18, citing that Rep. Byron Donalds was the only candidate who met the internal qualification criteria based on polling and fundraising. DeSantis criticized the decision, calling it a 'farce' in response to the party's plans for congressional debates. The upcoming congressional debates will take place on June 27 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, featuring candidates from Florida's 19th and 25th Congressional Districts. Donalds has opted out of debating ahead of the primary, which has led to backlash from opponents, including Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, who has initiated a petition urging Donalds to agree to a debate. The petition has garnered over 1,800 signatures. Candidate James Fishback has also been critical of Donalds' refusal to debate and has proposed an official CBS News debate on July 15 in Jacksonville, which the Florida GOP deemed 'unsanctioned' and subsequently rescinded Fishback's invitation to the Sunshine State Showdown. Donalds is currently leading in the polls by 46 points over Fishback and has received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump.