'You’re joking': Internet divided as Florida attorney John Morgan teases potential run for governor

MIAMI, FLORIDA: Florida's legal powerhouse, John Morgan, known as the driving force behind Florida's medical marijuana amendment and a notable Democratic fundraiser, has raised eyebrows across the political landscape with hints of a potential gubernatorial run in 2026.

Morgan, who orchestrated the state's 2020 initiative to raise the minimum wage to $15 by 2026, took to social media this week, declaring, "Maybe I should run for Governor... as an Independent."

The post was a direct response to Governor Ron DeSantis showcasing Florida's gradual minimum wage hike, a cause that Morgan passionately championed despite DeSantis opposing it several years ago.

Morgan expressed his wry amusement, posting, "This is hilarious. And why we despise most politicians. @GovRonDeSantis fought me tooth and nail... Maybe I should run for Governor... as an Independent. The People's Party." He concluded the post with the hashtag #ForThePeople, a slogan synonymous with his law firm, Morgan & Morgan.

In a statement to Politico, Morgan mused on the timing of a potential run, stating, "Florida knows who I am... for better or worse. And I don't need to raise money." Reflecting on his age, he added, "You find yourself at age 67 wondering if you have done enough and if you should have done more. So I have left the door open in my mind to watch it all play out."

Social media reactions

Social media platforms buzzed with reactions to Morgan's possible candidacy. Several supporters voiced their enthusiasm.

"I like that idea, John," one responded.

"You have my vote!" another wrote.

"Please do. Fairness is everything and if you Can do that I’m in," a comment read.

"Do it. And put me on the board of education so we can fix that mess, too," another added.

Some, however, scoffed at the prospect.

"You’re joking, right?" one commented.

"Dude, no," another reacted.

"Having a trial lawyer as Governor isn't going to help the insurance situation," someone else offered.

"We despised the guy you put up against DeSantis in 2022 the most bro. Next we are going to stop ambulance chasers like you from causing the auto insurance rates to keep rising. You are going to love 2024," another chimed in.

John Morgan's political journey

This isn't the first time Morgan has toyed with the idea of running for the highest office in the state. During the 2018 election cycle, he contemplated a run for the Democratic nomination but ultimately opted against it. At the time, he expressed his reluctance, stating, "I can't muster the enthusiasm to run for the nomination."

Morgan even floated the idea of registering as an Independent, saying at one point, “I plan to register as an Independent and when I vote, vote for the lesser of two evils. And if I ever ran, run as an Independent.”

Speculation persisted over the years regarding Morgan's political aspirations, but he eventually ruled out an Independent run as well. “People ask if I would ever run as an Independent. No way,” he posted at the time. He added, “Independents never win and only act as a spoiler. May the best man OR woman win.”

However, the landscape seems different this time.

Morgan's name is synonymous with Florida, not only due to his legal prowess but also his widespread name recognition, thanks to ubiquitous television ads for Morgan & Morgan. His influence extends to successful ballot initiatives, including the legalization of medical marijuana, showcasing his ability to connect with the people on critical issues.

As Florida looks ahead to the 2026 gubernatorial race, the field is already taking shape.

Governor Ron DeSantis, in his second term and unable to run again, leaves room for potential Republican candidates like Reps. Matt Gaetz and Byron Donalds. On the Democratic side, figures like state Sen. Shevrin Jones and Florida House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell are considering bids.

Morgan, known for his unexpected choices, threw another curveball by suggesting former NBA star Grant Hill as his running mate. Hill's name had previously surfaced as a possible candidate against Sen. Rick Scott in 2024.

Morgan endorsed Hill last year, saying that “a beloved celebrity makes a much better candidate than some political hack, especially when as smart and charismatic as Grant.”

While Morgan's intentions remain ambiguous, he hinted at some unconventional plans if elected. In addition to proposing that the Florida Legislature meet every two years instead of annually, he has promised, "One thing is for sure... We will all be smoking legal weed at the inauguration."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.