The Republican Party of Florida (RPOF) is pleased to announce that it will officially coordinate the 2026 debate schedule for all statewide Republican candidates in the State of Florida. Just as the Republican National Committee guided the Presidential primary debates, this initiative reflects the Party’s commitment to ensuring a clear, organized, and effective forum for candidates to present their vision to Florida voters.
The premier event in this series, the Sunshine Showdown, will take place June 26–27, 2026, in Fort Lauderdale at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Broward County. As one of the most consequential election cycles in recent history, the 2026 elections will play a pivotal role in shaping Florida’s future. The RPOF remains focused on re-electing Sen. Moody, retaining the Governor’s Mansion, and securing all seats within the Florida Cabinet.
“With historic voter registration advantages and a strong record of Republican governance, Florida Republicans are entering this election cycle from a position of strength, and voters deserve a clear, fair, and organized opportunity to hear directly from our candidates,” said Evan Power, Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida. “By coordinating a structured statewide debate schedule, we are ensuring a disciplined, transparent process that highlights leadership, ideas, and accountability, reinforces party unity, and prepares our nominees to win in 2026 and keep Florida free, prosperous, and Republican-led.”
With Republican leadership in Congress and legislative supermajorities on the ballot, it is essential that Florida Republicans demonstrate unity and mobilize voters across the state. Florida’s current advantage of more than 1.4 million registered Republican voters underscores the strong foundation for maintaining Florida’s status as a reliably Republican-led state that supports President Trump and Republican leadership at every level.
Republican organizations interested in hosting an official debate are encouraged to contact RPOF Executive Director Bill Helmich at [email protected] for further information.
Additional details, including participation criteria for RPOF‑sanctioned debates and forums, will be released in the coming weeks.
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