Florida A&M University students heard from and questioned gubernatorial candidate David Jolly during a town hall Monday.
Jolly was once a self-proclaimed lifelong Republican before he decided to switch to the Democrat ticket.
Fewer than 30% of voters in the state are registered Democrats. Jolly says he knows he’s running an uphill battle.
"I'm a Democratic nominee in the state of Florida, where democratic voter registration is only about 29% of the state but we're in the position today to win the governor ship because the people of Florida, I believe people across the country are rising up and they're doing something we haven't seen in a long time, they're taking control back from our politicians," Jolly told the audience.
Students heard Jolly speak about his plans if elected to office, including suspending 287g agreements between local law enforcement and immigration officers, and reinstating dollars for Diversity Equity and Inclusion programs.
Jaheelia Sewell, a junior psychology student, says she’s skeptical of politicians who make promises on the campaign trail.
"I don't really trust politicians, and I don't know if he's going to keep his word but I hope he does if he gets elected," Sewell said.
Byron Donalds, Jolly’s opponent running on the Republican ticket, visited the university campus two weeks before Jolly to attend the same townhall. The occasion was marked with students being escorted from the room, and a false fire alarm.
Jolly pushed on some of the statements Donalds made at a previous townhall—including on Donalds’ stance on DEI initiatives.
"This whole idea that somehow DEI is in confrontation with meritocracy, no its not. DEI is a reflection of meritocracy when it is handled correctly," Jolly said.
There weren't as many students in attendance at the Jolly townhall, but those who did attend laid out questions for Jolly about his plans if elected for the environment, public education and public health.
Some students asked about Jolly’s transition from being a member of the Republican party to Independent to Democrat.
Jolly said culture wars and ideologies have polluted the party, which is why he left.
"I don't think the problem is that I'm a former Republican, I think the problem is there are people who know better today and remain in the Republican party," Jolly said.
Early voting begins in Leon County on Oct. 19. Students are encouraged to make a plan to vote early or on election day Nov. 3.
