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De Santisand Collins Face Off A Florida Gubernatorial Race Definedby Experienceand Ideology

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  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, August 19th 2025 at 22:48 GMT by Tallahassee Democrat
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DeSantis and Collins Face Off: A Florida Gubernatorial Race Defined by Experience and Ideology

The race for Florida Governor between incumbent Ron DeSantis and former Congressman Michael Collins is shaping up to be a defining moment for the state's political future. While polls currently show a tight contest, the underlying dynamics reveal a clash of experience, policy visions, and contrasting approaches to leadership that will resonate with voters across the Sunshine State. This election isn’t just about personalities; it’s about the direction Florida is headed.

DeSantis, seeking a second term after previously serving as a U.S. Representative and state legislator, has built his political brand on conservative principles and a willingness to challenge established norms. His tenure as governor has been marked by significant policy shifts, including restrictions on abortion access, aggressive measures against undocumented immigration, and a focus on parental rights in education – often referred to by critics as the “Stop WOKE Act.” He’s cultivated a strong base of support among conservative voters who appreciate his unwavering stance on these issues. His campaign emphasizes economic prosperity under his leadership, highlighting Florida's population growth and job creation while frequently criticizing what he perceives as liberal overreach in other states.

Collins, meanwhile, presents himself as a more moderate alternative. A former Democrat turned Republican, Collins brings a background rooted in business and public service. He served as a Congressman representing the St. Augustine area for four years before leaving office in 2019. His platform focuses on fiscal responsibility, education reform (though with a different approach than DeSantis), and addressing Florida’s affordability crisis – particularly housing costs. Collins has positioned himself as someone who can bridge divides and appeal to independent voters, emphasizing his commitment to finding common ground and practical solutions. He frequently criticizes DeSantis' divisive rhetoric and what he sees as an overly aggressive governing style.

The economic landscape of Florida is a key battleground in this election. While DeSantis touts the state’s job growth and population influx, Collins argues that these gains are masking underlying issues like rising inflation and a lack of affordable housing. He proposes policies aimed at easing the burden on working families, including tax cuts and incentives for developers to build more affordable homes. DeSantis, conversely, emphasizes attracting businesses to Florida through lower taxes and reduced regulations, believing this will ultimately create jobs and boost the economy.

Education is another major point of contention. DeSantis’ focus on parental rights has led to controversies surrounding curriculum changes and restrictions on discussions about race and gender in schools. He argues that parents should have more control over their children's education and that schools should prioritize traditional values. Collins, while also supporting parental involvement, advocates for a more collaborative approach between parents, teachers, and administrators. He believes in empowering educators and fostering critical thinking skills rather than imposing ideological mandates.

The candidates’ approaches to immigration are starkly different. DeSantis has championed strict enforcement measures and criticized the Biden administration's border policies. Collins, while acknowledging the need for secure borders, emphasizes a more humane approach that considers the economic contributions of immigrants and addresses the root causes of migration. This difference reflects a broader ideological divide on how best to address complex immigration challenges.

Beyond policy differences, the candidates’ personalities and leadership styles also contrast sharply. DeSantis is known for his controlled demeanor and often combative responses to criticism. Collins projects an image of calm competence and seeks to portray himself as a unifier. This distinction plays into voters' perceptions of who can best lead Florida through challenging times.

The election is further complicated by the influence of national politics. Both candidates are receiving significant support from outside groups, and the race has become a proxy battle between conservative and moderate factions within the Republican Party. The outcome will likely have implications for the broader political landscape, signaling whether voters prefer a continuation of DeSantis’ brand of conservatism or a shift towards a more pragmatic approach championed by Collins.

Recent polling data suggests a close race, with both candidates vying for support among independent voters who are undecided on which direction they want Florida to take. The final weeks of the campaign will likely see intensified efforts to sway these crucial voters through targeted advertising and public appearances. Ultimately, the election between DeSantis and Collins will be decided by which candidate can best articulate a vision for Florida’s future that resonates with the state's diverse electorate. It is a contest not just for the governorship, but for the soul of Florida politics.