Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and California Gov. Gavin Newsom are set to debate this week on whose state offers a better model for the country. However, according to watchdog group PEN America, DeSantis has been leading an "assault on free expression in Florida" that is unprecedented in recent U.S. history. The group has compared the two states' policies on various 1st Amendment issues, such as campus speech codes, book bans, and internet freedom. The debate, scheduled for Thursday night on Fox News, holds significance as both men have significant influence on the American right and left. DeSantis sees this as an opportunity to revive his presidential campaign, while Newsom aims to maintain his national stature amidst speculation of a 2028 run.