Florida Candidates Campaigned on School Funding and Policy
As the November 3 election nears, candidates have outlined differing visions for state education and campus gun regulations.
Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Secondary Education
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Should your state prioritize funding for public education over other taxpayer-funded projects?
David Jolly and Byron Donalds held recent campaign events across Florida to address the future of the state's public education system and firearm policies. Voters have until October 5 to register before the general election on November 3.
Why it matters
The proposed changes could significantly impact school funding, teacher compensation, and student safety policies across the state. These campaign promises address fundamental questions about how Florida balances its tax revenue with the needs of public schools and campus regulations.
David Jolly has proposed a 10-year education system overhaul funded by tourist development taxes, while Byron Donalds is addressing campus gun policies involving current age restrictions for purchasing rifles and shotguns.
The players
David Jolly
A political candidate who previously served in public office and is currently proposing a 10-year educational funding overhaul for Florida.
Byron Donalds
A political candidate focusing on Second Amendment advocacy and campus gun policies at Florida colleges.
The details
David Jolly’s plan aims to address teacher salary issues by leveraging tourist tax revenue to stabilize public education funding over the next decade. Simultaneously, Byron Donalds is engaging students on university campuses regarding Second Amendment rights, specifically challenging existing state laws that prohibit individuals under 21 from purchasing certain long guns.
Timeline
September 29, 2026: Byron Donalds visited Florida A&M University.
September 29-30, 2026: The candidates campaigned across the state.
October 5, 2026: The final day to register to vote.
November 3, 2026: The date of the general election.
The Home Front
Campaign platforms in Florida are increasingly centered on reallocating regional tax streams like the tourist development tax to address public education funding. These proposals represent a shift in how candidates suggest managing the state's budget relative to its high GDP ranking.
Families with students in the public school system should review the proposed teacher salary initiatives as these directly affect local educational resources. Keep an eye on local election resources to verify your voter registration status before the October 5 deadline.
The takeaway
The upcoming election marks a critical window for families to influence how state funds and campus safety policies are structured over the next decade. Ensure your household is election-ready by checking your registration status with the state elections office before the October 5 deadline.
What happens next
Voters must register by October 5, 2026, to participate in the general election occurring on November 3, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the current state of classroom funding and campus safety, check our guide to Florida Secondary Education.
Live Poll
Should your state prioritize funding for public education over other taxpayer-funded projects?
