With the Nov. 3 midterm elections just four weeks away, Florida Polytechnic University attracted over 100 people to a panel discussion on Monday, Oct. 6, about differing political party approaches to hot-button issues such as artificial intelligence, affordable housing and public investment.
“Two operating systems – one country: Republicans and Democrats discuss different approaches to big challenges,” was the first installment of the University’s Office of Public Policy Events 2026-2027 community event series.
The panelists were Evan Power, chair of the Republican Party of Florida, and Pamela Castellana, vice chair of Democratic Executive Committee Engagement for the Democratic Party of Florida. Dr. Brad Thiessen, Florida Poly’s provost, moderated the event.
The panelists began the session by outlining areas where both political parties align.
“I think we agree with our need to protect our country and move forward and provide for the next generation and generations to come and protect democracy,” Castellana said.
Power cited the desire for transparency in government as another area of agreement.
Thiessen also asked about the role of government in artificial intelligence as the technology rapidly evolves and affects many industries.
“I think AI is the issue of our time in the next number of years, and I think it’s as important as the Industrial Revolution,” Power said. “It’s going to markedly change the workforce, what people can do and what jobs are done.”
To conclude the evening, both panelists encouraged students to remain engaged in the political process regardless of whether they feel perfectly aligned with a major political party. Both speakers emphasized that the future direction of any political platform depends heavily on the involvement and leadership of the younger generation.
“I don’t care if you don’t vote in line with me. Just vote,” Castellana said. “It’s your voice.”
Contact:
Lydia Guzmán
Director of Communications
863-874-8557
