Bill Clinton Campaigns for David Jolly in Florida
The 42nd president joined the Democratic gubernatorial nominee at an interfaith event in Pembroke Park.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Elections
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Former President Bill Clinton traveled to Pembroke Park to campaign for Democratic gubernatorial nominee David Jolly. The appearance comes as early voting is underway across Florida.
Why it matters
Democrats are expressing increased confidence in the competitiveness of the race despite economic concerns weighing on the minds of voters. The party hopes the visit will help bridge the gap in a contest currently trailing by 8 points.
Current polling shows Republican Byron Donalds with an 8-point lead over David Jolly. This follows a historical precedent set in 1994 when Lawton Chiles defeated Jeb Bush by more than 60,000 votes to become the last Democrat elected governor.
The players
Bill Clinton
He served as the 42nd President of the United States.
David Jolly
He is the Democratic nominee for the Florida gubernatorial election.
Byron Donalds
He is the Republican nominee currently running for Florida governor.
Lawton Chiles
He was the last Democrat elected to the office of Florida governor.
Hillary Clinton
She is a former U.S. Secretary of State who is scheduled to campaign for David Jolly.
The details
Bill Clinton participated in an interfaith event to support David Jolly as the race reaches its final stages. The candidate is actively working to make progress with Latino voters while facing a significant deficit against Byron Donalds.
Timeline
1994: Lawton Chiles was elected Florida governor.
October 20, 2026: Bill Clinton campaigned in Pembroke Park.
Late October 2026: Hillary Clinton is expected to campaign for David Jolly.
Political Context
Opponents argue that the recent Democratic strategy ignores current polling realities and fails to address broader concerns regarding the state's economic direction. Supporters of Byron Donalds maintain that historical comparisons to the 1994 race are inapplicable due to shifting demographic trends.
Early voting is currently open, allowing residents to cast their ballots before Election Day. The outcome of this race will determine the state's regulatory approach and future infrastructure funding priorities.
The takeaway
Voters should review their local early voting schedules to ensure they can participate before the midterm deadline. Political momentum late in the cycle often signals the final push by campaigns to solidify support among undecided voters.
What happens next
Hillary Clinton is expected to visit Florida within the two weeks prior to the midterm election to campaign for David Jolly.
Further reading
Find more updates on the race at Florida elections.
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