DEMOCRATS FOR GOVERNOR TO DEBATE AT LOCAL TV STATION

WPBF-Channel 25 airs broadcast statewide before Aug. 28 primary.

WEST PALM BEACH — All five Democratic candidates for governor will face off Aug. 2 in a debate at the studios of WPBF-Channel 25.

The hourlong debate, presented by the West Palm Beach ABC affiliate and the Florida Press Association, will be broadcast statewide, giving voters throughout Florida the chance to hear from one of the largest fields of candidates in recent memory weeks before the Aug. 28 primary. The Republican Party of Florida has opted not to participate, organizers said.

The five candidates who have agreed to participate are: Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum, West Palm Beach real estate billionaire Jeff Greene, former U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham, entrepreneur Chris King and former Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine.

Republican candidates who participated in a June 28 debate in Orlando are: Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam and Ron DeSantis, a congressman who represents the northeast part of the state.

The Republican Party said its candidates will participate in two debates. The one in West Palm Beach, dubbed “The Race for Governor,” isn’t one of them, organizers said.

Todd McDermott, a WPBF news anchor, will moderate the Democratic candidates’ debate that will begin at 7 p.m.

“This may very well be the best way for Florida voters to compare and contrast the candidates, side by side, and to hear their ability to present a plan that can take us all into the best possible future,” said Dean Ridings, president and CEO of the Florida Press Association.