David Jolly addresses the Lakeland community at First Baptist Institutional Church on July 14, 2026. | Erin Grant, LkldNow

Democrat David Jolly made a brief stop in Lakeland Tuesday evening, July 14, on his “Jolly for Governor” campaign tour.

Jolly spoke to about 50 people at First Baptist Institutional Church, outlining his priorities for housing, healthcare, education, and Florida’s insurance market.

A man asks a question at Jolly for Governor visit to First Baptist Institutional Church on July 14, 2026. | Erin Grant, LkldNow

The event drew local members of the Black community, the church, and community organizations like the NAACP.

Jolly spent the first 30 minutes discussing his political evolution from Republican to a “proud Democrat,” his Christian faith and values, and his dissatisfaction with the current Florida education system.

During a question and answer session, Jolly briefly addressed immigration, limited government, and abortion rights, saying he supports the government stepping in only when the private sector can’t or won’t.

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