Conversations: Special Guests with Preston Scott · 100.7 WFLA (WFLA-FM)

MidTerm Elections, Florida's Governor's Race, and Special Sessions

April 8, 2026·15 min·1 clip

A conservative think tank president explains why Republicans are sabotaging themselves in office.

Dr. Bob McClure, president of the James Madison Institute, joins the morning show to discuss political developments ahead of the midterm elections. He believes American voters are primarily concerned with affordability and economic opportunity, noting that anger typically motivates off-year election turnout. McClure argues that while Republicans may benefit from typical midterm dynamics, the party faces challenges from being held back by extreme elements and poor messaging. He makes a striking assessment that elected Republicans are their own worst enemy, explaining they often campaign boldly but govern timidly once in office. The discussion turns to Florida politics, where Governor Ron DeSantis enjoys higher favorability ratings than the president or Congress. McClure credits DeSantis with significant accomplishments including tax cuts, regulatory reform, universal school choice, tort reform, and removing DEI from higher education. He emphasizes that DeSantis stands out because he governs the same way he campaigns, showing courage and consistency. Regarding the Florida governor's race, McClure notes that Byron Donalds leads significantly in polls, particularly after receiving Trump's endorsement, holding a 20-25 point advantage. He suggests DeSantis may remain focused on finishing his current term rather than weighing in on the primary early. On the Democratic side, McClure identifies their challenge of appealing to moderate and independent voters while maintaining support from their progressive base. He characterizes the Florida Democratic Party as primarily focused on marijuana legalization and abortion rights, lacking broader policy alternatives. The conversation shifts to upcoming special legislative sessions, including redistricting that will likely favor Republicans and property tax reform. McClure advocates for a levy cap approach that would limit local government spending growth to population plus inflation, rather than micromanaging how localities spend money. He supports State CFO Blaise Angolia's audits of local governments, which have revealed excessive spending across red and blue jurisdictions alike. These audits show revenue increases of 30-40% in growing areas, with officials claiming they're not raising taxes while failing to reduce millage rates. McClure particularly endorses extending these audits to school districts, noting that central office administrative positions have grown faster than teacher hiring in most districts. He argues for transparency in government spending at all levels, calling light the best disinfectant for wasteful practices.

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