Miami Fort Lauderdale, FL, June 17, 2026 —

Gubernatorial Debate Canceled Amidst Lack of National Media Interest, Florida GOP Chair States

A planned gubernatorial debate has been canceled due to a perceived lack of interest from national media outlets, according to Evan Power, Chair of the Republican Party of Florida. Power stated that national news organizations expressed no desire to cover a debate involving a Republican nominee.

This situation contrasts with a 2018 gubernatorial debate, which aired on Fox News and is considered to have been a significant moment for then-candidate Ron DeSantis’s campaign. Power defended the decision to cancel the current debate by highlighting the party’s criteria for candidate participation, which include fundraising and polling thresholds. He argued that only candidates meeting these benchmarks should engage in debates.

In lieu of a debate, the Republican Party of Florida has offered speaking opportunities at an upcoming party event to select candidates. The party indicated that debates for congressional races featuring competitive primaries will still take place, with coverage expected from regional media outlets.

Story summarized from the original created by Jacob Ogles on floridapolitics.com, see more information here.

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