During an event in Miami on Thursday, David Jolly, a Democratic candidate for governor of Florida, expressed his hope that the Cuban regime will eventually fall, placing his trust in Secretary of State Marco Rubio to devise a strategic plan to bring about this change.
The 53-year-old former congressman emphasized his belief in Rubio's potential role while simultaneously criticizing Donald Trump's administration.
"I sincerely hope that Marco Rubio succeeds in what could be his most triumphant moment, witnessing Cuba and its people achieve freedom. My concern is that this president doesn't fully grasp the current situation," Jolly told EFE news agency.
Challenges of Regime Change
Jolly's main concern is not the fall of the regime itself, but the manner in which it happens. He referenced the Venezuelan experience to illustrate his point.
"I hope for Cuba's fall, but I distrust this president's foreign policy. Look at Venezuela: the regime changed, but we then endorsed its successor, Delcy, and merely began profiting from oil. I'm unsure if that truly changed anything," he remarked.
The candidate fears that the Trump administration might pursue regime change in Cuba without a comprehensive plan for the aftermath, warning that "there's no Delcy Rodríguez in Cuba" to take control smoothly with Washington's support.
Rubio's Crucial Role
Jolly expressed hope that Rubio, as Secretary of State, could effectively counsel Trump. "Perhaps this is Rubio's shining moment," he suggested.
His comments came during his first public appearance in Miami following his Democratic primary victory for governor, where he secured 61% of the votes. The event was hosted by Miami's Community News at the Casa Cuba restaurant.
Electoral Strategies and Challenges
Jolly also addressed the Senate candidacy of Angie Nixon, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), who also emerged victorious in her primary.
Nixon's presence on the Democratic ballot complicates the electoral strategy in a state where the term "socialism" elicits immediate rejection among the Cuban American electorate.
"I reject socialism. I reject the DSA. I'm a capitalist and believe that economic opportunities stem from freedom. Look, I was a Republican, and if Cuba is part of your heritage, I believe the Cuban regime must fall," Jolly declared.
Political Journey and Future Plans
Jolly, who represented Florida's 13th district as a Republican from 2014 to 2017, left the party in 2018 due to his criticisms of Trump's first term. He formally registered as a Democrat in April 2025.
He will face Republican Byron Donalds, a congressman from Naples endorsed by Trump, in November's election, which will determine if Florida can have its first Democratic governor since 1999.
Jolly remains optimistic about this historic challenge: "If the election were tonight, Florida would choose a Democratic governor. Voters have shown they're ready to elect a Democratic governor, and I believe we'll win in November."
His main proposals include expanding access to housing, healthcare, and education, an immediate ban on AI data centers, a legal pathway for immigrants, and removing the requirement for local law enforcement to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Key Issues in Florida's Political Landscape
What role does Marco Rubio play in David Jolly's vision for Cuba?
David Jolly sees Marco Rubio as a pivotal figure who could lead a strategic approach to bring about change in Cuba, potentially marking Rubio's most significant achievement.
Why is David Jolly concerned about the Trump administration's foreign policy?
Jolly is concerned that the Trump administration may pursue regime change in Cuba without a solid plan for the post-regime phase, similar to the situation in Venezuela.
How does David Jolly view socialism in the context of Florida's elections?
David Jolly rejects socialism and the Democratic Socialists of America, emphasizing his capitalist beliefs and the importance of economic freedom, particularly in a state with a significant Cuban American population.