Republican Byron Donalds and Democrat David Jolly are competing in the ongoing election for governor of Florida. The two candidates offer almost entirely different proposals on the development of data centers, artificial intelligence and property taxes. According to the latest University of North Florida poll, Donalds leads Jolly, but his advantage is within the margin of error.
According to the poll, Donalds has the support of 49% of Floridians, while 47% favor Jolly. The margin of error is 2.81 percentage points, so in the extreme case, it could turn out that the Democrat takes the state’s highest office this time. The authors of the survey stress that turnout will be crucial, and polls cannot predict it precisely.
What Does Florida Look Like Under Donalds, and Under Jolly?
One of the main topics of the campaign for the next leader of the Sunshine State has been the development of large data centers. Jolly says he will impose a moratorium on the construction of large-scale facilities on his first day in office. He argues that the projects are being built too quickly and that their impact on the environment and residents’ health requires further assessment. Donalds, on the other hand, believes that decisions on where to locate the centers should rest primarily with local governments. He also pledges to subject these projects to oversight of their impact on utility bills and water use. He also promises to publish a state study on data centers, with results expected in 2027.
The candidates also differ in their approach to artificial intelligence. Jolly emphasizes the opportunities AI offers but warns of job losses, threats to children’s privacy and the replacement of teachers with technology. He supports retraining programs and assistance for workers if the growth of AI leads to significant changes in the labor market. Donalds believes AI has become a permanent part of the economy and that residents should be prepared for its further development. He points to the need to protect children and likeness rights, as well as the potential to create well-paid jobs in high-tech sectors, including Florida’s space industry.
A key difference remains their stance on Amendment 3, a proposed amendment that would expand property tax exemptions for an owner’s primary residence. Donalds supports the change, arguing that it will let residents keep more of their income. He also promises to secure funding for the entities whose revenues would fall as a result of the tax relief. Jolly intends to vote against it, pointing to the risk of reduced funding for local services and public services. He proposes instead a tax exemption of up to $250,000 for first-time homebuyers, income-based relief for seniors and greater powers for local governments. According to the poll, 50% of respondents support Amendment 3, 30% are opposed and 14% are undecided. At least 60% of the vote is required for the amendment to pass.
The winner of Tuesday’s election will succeed incumbent Gov. Ron DeSantis, who cannot run for another consecutive term.
The survey was conducted from Oct. 12 to 19 by the Public Opinion Research Lab at the University of North Florida.
Ed. JŁ
Source: Słoneczne Radio
