David Jolly rejects three debates with Byron Donalds

David ZimmermannSeptember 21, 2026

Democratic candidate David Jolly has chosen not to participate in any debates with his Republican opponent, Byron Donalds, in the Florida gubernatorial race.He announced this decision over six weeks before the upcoming election, citing concerns that the debates would not foster constructive or honest discussion and might rather increase division, hostility, and bad blood. It appears there might potentially be some confusion in the details you’ve provided. david Jolly is a Democratic candidate known for his congressional campaigns, while Byron Donalds is a Republican congressman also involved in florida politics. Though, neither has been a gubernatorial candidate as of October 2023.

If you’re referring to a diffrent race or candidates, could you please clarify? Alternatively, if this is a hypothetical scenario or from a recent development beyond my knowledge base, I can help analyze or discuss the implications of a candidate choosing not to participate in debates for the Florida gubernatorial race.

Democratic candidate David Jolly is skipping all debates with his Republican opponent in the race for Florida governor.

Jolly announced his decision on Sunday, a little over six weeks before the general election. He accused Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) of peddling “repeated lies” and acting in “bad faith.” For that reason, Jolly argued the debates “would not create constructive, honest conversation and only further stoke division, animosity, and bad will.”