DeSantis and Collins Face Off: A Florida Gubernatorial Race Defined by Experience and Ideology

Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, August 21st 2025 at 8:31 GMT by Tallahassee Democrat
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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 represents a fundamental debate over the direction Florida should take in the coming years.

DeSantis, seeking his second term after previously serving as a U.S. Representative and state legislator, has built a reputation as a conservative firebrand. His tenure has been marked by aggressive policies on issues ranging from education and parental rights to immigration and COVID-19 response. He’s cultivated a strong base of support among conservatives nationwide, often positioning himself as a leading figure in the Republican party's culture war. His campaign emphasizes his record of fiscal responsibility – boasting about Florida’s economic resilience during challenging times – and promises continued focus on securing the state’s borders and protecting traditional values.

The governor has consistently championed school choice programs, including voucher systems that allow parents to use public funds for private education. This stance, alongside legislation restricting discussions of gender identity and sexual orientation in schools (dubbed by critics as the “Don't Say Gay” bill), has galvanized both supporters who believe in parental control over education and opponents concerned about inclusivity and discrimination. DeSantis’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, prioritizing individual liberty and limiting government mandates, also remains a significant point of contention, with differing opinions on its effectiveness and impact.

Michael Collins, entering the race after a career representing Florida's 26th congressional district, presents himself as a more moderate alternative. A former Marine pilot and businessman, Collins emphasizes his experience in both leadership and problem-solving. He’s positioned himself as a pragmatic candidate focused on addressing everyday concerns of Floridians – such as rising insurance costs, affordable housing, and healthcare accessibility – rather than engaging in divisive cultural battles.

Collins' campaign highlights his commitment to finding common ground and working across the aisle. He has criticized DeSantis’s combative style and argues that a more collaborative approach is needed to tackle Florida’s challenges effectively. He proposes reforms to address the state’s insurance crisis, which has left many homeowners facing exorbitant premiums or struggling to find coverage. His platform also includes initiatives aimed at expanding access to affordable healthcare and tackling the housing affordability crisis through zoning reform and incentives for developers.

The economic landscape of Florida plays a crucial role in this election. While DeSantis touts the state’s job growth and low unemployment rate, Collins points to concerns about inflation and the rising cost of living impacting working families. He argues that DeSantis' policies have disproportionately benefited corporations while neglecting the needs of ordinary citizens. The debate over property taxes is also a key issue, with both candidates offering different approaches to alleviate the burden on homeowners.

Beyond policy differences, the personalities of the two candidates are starkly contrasting. DeSantis’s often-aloof demeanor and willingness to engage in direct confrontation have drawn criticism from some quarters, while his supporters see it as evidence of his strength and conviction. Collins, on the other hand, projects a more approachable and conciliatory image, aiming to appeal to a broader range of voters.

The influence of national politics is also undeniable. DeSantis’s prominence within the Republican party has attracted attention and support from conservative donors and activists nationwide. However, it also makes him a target for Democrats seeking to portray him as an extreme figure out of step with Florida's diverse population. Collins, while benefiting from some national Democratic support, faces the challenge of differentiating himself from the broader progressive agenda and appealing to independent voters in a state that has trended conservative in recent years.

Recent polling data indicates a remarkably close race, suggesting that neither candidate can afford to take anything for granted. The outcome will likely hinge on which candidate is most successful in mobilizing their base while also persuading undecided voters. The debates between DeSantis and Collins are expected to be pivotal moments in the campaign, offering voters a direct comparison of their visions for Florida’s future.

Ultimately, the election between Ron DeSantis and Michael Collins represents more than just a contest for the governorship; it's a referendum on the direction of Florida – a state grappling with rapid growth, economic challenges, and evolving social values. The choice facing Floridians is clear: continue down the path forged by DeSantis’s conservative agenda or embrace a new approach championed by Collins that prioritizes collaboration and addresses the everyday concerns of working families.

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DeSantis and Collins Face Off: A Florida Gubernatorial Race Defined by Experience and Ideology