TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Republican Party of Florida (RPOF) unveiled an all-star panel of political journalists who will moderate the highly anticipated Congressional District 19 and Congressional District 25 debates during the Sunshine State Showdown on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the iconic Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

Leading the discussions will be three highly respected voices in Florida and national politics:

  • Kimberly Leonard, author of Politico’s Florida Playbook

  • Marc Caputo, White House reporter for Axios

  • Peter Schorsch, publisher of Florida Politics

The Sunshine State Showdown will bring together Republican grassroots leaders, elected officials, candidates, donors, industry leaders, and special guests from across Florida for one of the premier political events of the summer.

The debates will provide voters with an opportunity to hear directly from candidates as they discuss the issues shaping Florida and the nation, including economic opportunity, public safety, individual freedoms, and conservative leadership.

Congressional District 19 Debate

Confirmed participants include:

  • Ola Hawatmeh

  • Madison Cawthorn

Additional invited candidates:

  • Chris Collins

  • Catalina Lauf

  • Jim Oberweis

  • Jim Schwartzel

Congressional District 25 Debate

Confirmed participants include:

  • George Moraitis

  • Scott Singer

Additional invited candidates:

  • Dan Franzese

  • Joe Kaufman

Moderated by some of the most influential journalists covering Florida and Washington politics, these debates promise substantive conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing Florida communities and the country.

With leaders and activists gathering from every corner of the Sunshine State, the Sunshine State Showdown is poised to be one of Florida’s marquee political events for the 2026 election cycle, showcasing the state’s continued leadership in advancing conservative principles, strengthening communities, and promoting policies that deliver results for families and businesses.

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear directly from the candidates and witness the conversations shaping Florida’s political future. Learn more here. 

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