The Latest: Putnam ‘welcomes’ DeSantis to Florida in debate

KISSIMMEE, Fla. – The Latest on the Florida Republican gubernatorial debate (all times local):

6:55 p.m.

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam made jabs at U.S. Rep. Ron DeSantis over time the congressman has spent in Washington, D.C. instead of in Florida during a live-televised debate.

Putnam opened the debate Thursday night at a resort near Orlando by “welcoming” DeSantis to Florida, tongue-in-cheek.

DeSantis defended himself, saying he was doing his job and fulfilling his duty as a congressman.

The first half of the debate televised on Fox News covered topics including the new opening on the U.S. Supreme Court, civility and President Trump’s planned meeting with Russia’s leader.

President Trump has endorsed DeSantis, but Putnam has raised more money and is leading in recent polls.

The primary is in August.

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4:45 a.m.

The two leading candidates for Florida’s Republican gubernatorial nomination are facing off at a forum for state Republicans.

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam and U.S. Rep. Ron DeSantis are meeting at the Sunshine Summit conference in Orlando Thursday evening. The debate will be televised nationally on Fox News.

President Trump has endorsed DeSantis, but Putnam has raised more money and is leading in recent polls.

Gov. Rick Scott is stepping down from his post due to term limits.

Among the speakers at the two-day conference are conservative filmmaker and author Dinesh D’Souza, political consultant Dick Morris and U.S. Sen. Rand Paul.