Mr. Putnam is projected as the leading Republican for Governor, and will face a strong general election opponent, quite possibly former US Rep. Gwen Graham (D-Tallahassee), the daughter of former Governor and Senator Bob Graham (D). The Florida Governor’s campaign will be one of the most important 2018 political contests because of its effect on the 2021 redistricting process. The Governor elected next year will carry redistricting veto power.
--Jim Ellis