Two pro-Israel candidates to vie for Florida governorship

Following Florida's primary elections, Republican Byron Donalds and Democrat David Jolly have emerged as the final candidates to succeed Governor Ron DeSantis. As DeSantis is term-limited, the November general election will determine his replacement. While both candidates are considered pro-Israel, they hold differing views on US military action regarding Iran.

Byron Donalds, who has received the endorsement of Donald Trump, has advocated for decisive action against Iran, stating that peace is achieved through strength. While he has supported state-level anti-semitism legislation, he voted against the federal Antisemitism Awareness Act in 2024, citing concerns over the bill's language and the lack of opportunity for amendments.

David Jolly, a former Republican Congressman who shifted to the Democratic Party, maintains a long-standing record of support for Israel, including past calls to increase annual military aid to the country. However, he has diverged from Donalds regarding recent military operations, expressing concern over the lack of broad congressional support and emphasizing the need for regional stability and a reduced nuclear threat.

Governor DeSantis, who is leaving office, established a record of unwavering support for Israel, including opposition to the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement and becoming the first Florida governor to visit the West Bank. The successor to his administration will be decided by Florida voters in November.