WLRN Public Media | By Sergio R. Bustos

Former Florida Democratic Party leader Jason Pizzo, who left the party last month saying it was “dead,” said Sunday that he’s planning to run as an independent in the 2026 governor’s race.

Pizzo, in an interview with CBS4 Facing South Florida’s Jim DeFede, revealed his gubernatorial plans after DeFede asked him directly about running for governor.

“Yes, I am,” Pizzo told DeFede.

“We need somebody who can balance a checkbook, who understands finance, not just economic theory; who’s concerned about infrastructure and resiliency and the environment and education and all of these things that are top of mind for people that are just trying to keep a roof over their head, keep their kids clothed and educated,” he said.

This story was originally produced by WLRN, South Florida’s only public radio station at 91.3 FM, as part of a content sharing partnership with MIA Media Group. Read more at WLRN.org