David Jolly Selects Former Biden Official as Running Mate for Florida Gubernatorial Race
Democratic candidate for Florida governor, David Jolly, has announced his pick for lieutenant governor: Gwen Graham, a former official in the Biden administration. Graham previously suggested that illegal immigrants should be allowed to obtain driver’s licenses, citing safety for all Floridians.
Jolly, who recently switched from the Republican Party to the Democratic Party, stated that he wanted a “partner in government who can be governor, not just lieutenant governor.”
Graham has experience as the assistant secretary of education for legislative and legislative affairs during Biden’s presidency and had previously run for governor in 2018.
In a campaign press release, Graham emphasized, “If you want a leader who will divide Floridians from one another, we are not the ticket. But if you believe government should help people build better lives and create opportunities for future generations, we invite you to join us.”
This statement seems somewhat contradictory, especially since Graham was known for supporting policies that many considered divisive during her time at the U.S. Department of Education. For example, the Biden administration advocated for educational guidelines that allowed transgender students to use restrooms corresponding to their gender identity rather than biological sex.
Graham’s perspectives on immigration are notably progressive. She has argued that Florida should let illegal immigrants obtain non-REAL ID licenses. During her 2018 gubernatorial campaign, she noted that more than two million Floridians reportedly drive without a license, and about one-fifth of fatal accidents involve unlicensed drivers. She argued that allowing undocumented individuals to get licenses would actually enhance safety for everyone.
She stated, “For the safety of all Floridians, we should allow illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses.” Graham has also been vocal about educational access, advocating for undocumented immigrants to attend public schools and for DREAMers to receive in-state tuition.
While claiming to support the Second Amendment, she proposed measures during her campaign to strengthen background checks, ban high-capacity magazines, and restrict assault weapons. Additionally, she has taken a strong stance against charter schools, often spreading negative information about them.
In the upcoming race, Jolly and Graham are expected to challenge Florida Representative Byron Donald (R-Fla.), who currently leads the gubernatorial race by a significant margin.
Byron Donald’s campaign communications director expressed skepticism about Graham’s qualifications, criticizing her record at the Biden administration’s Education Department, particularly regarding parental rights in education.
This announcement occurs amid a broader context of Republican dominance in Florida. While there are over 1.5 million registered Democratic voters in the state, Republican candidates have recently achieved victories, with Donald Trump winning Florida in the past three presidential elections.
