Florida governor debate between Ron DeSantis and Charlie Crist: Here's key insights

Democrat Charlie Crist and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis went toe to toe in a heated debate over several controversial issues.

Four-Year Commitment

During the debate, DeSantis started comparing Crist's policies to President Joe Biden's. Crist chose that exact moment to call DeSantis, telling him that he is focused on President Joe Biden because he intends to run for President in 2024. Crist asked De Santis to look at Floridians and commit to four years as governor if re-elected. DeSantis maintained silence.

Abortion Rights in Florida

In a statement, DeSantis said that he is proud of the state's 15-week ban. Crist called the 15-week ban a barbarous and callous measure. Over this, DeSantis said Crist only supports abortion rights out of political expediency, and once, Crist was also a "pro-life" supporter.

Critical Race Theory Ban

DeSantis talked about banning critical race theory in classrooms, saying he doesn't want kids to learn hate and discrimination. Crist defended this, saying that some topics are difficult and deserve mature leadership.

Hurricane Ian

Crist called DeSantis for being "absent without leave (AWOL)" during the crisis, and a faster response may have saved lives. DeSantis responded by saying Crist was only trying to politicise the matter.

FAQs:

1. Did the debate cover pandemic issues?
   DeSantis said that if Crist had been the governor during the pandemic, he would have thrown millions of Floridians into turmoil. Crist asked if DeSantis was trying to boast about the six million deaths under his leadership.
2. Was it allowed to ask direct questions?
   Liz Quirantes told the audience that the two candidates had opted against direct questions.