Florida voters are heading to the polls in one of the most closely watched primary elections of the 2026 cycle, choosing nominees for governor, Congress, and the U.S. Senate. The results are expected to provide an early indication of former President Donald Trump’s political influence in his adopted home state while revealing whether Democrats can regain momentum in a state that has steadily shifted toward Republicans over the past decade.
Governor’s Race Becomes a Major Test for Trump
One of the biggest contests is the Republican primary for governor, where U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds is seeking his party’s nomination with the backing of President Donald Trump. Donalds faces competition from Lt. Gov. Jay Collins and political newcomer James Fishback as Republicans choose a successor to term-limited Gov. Ron DeSantis.
If elected, Donalds would become Florida’s first Black governor. While that would be historic, his campaign has focused primarily on conservative priorities, including tax cuts, insurance reform, and lowering consumer costs.
Speaking about his campaign, Donalds said, “The people of Florida want to make sure that the Florida dream is alive and well into the future. Affordability is a problem for all Floridians. It doesn’t matter what your politics are. It doesn’t matter what the color of your skin is.”
On the Democratic side, former Republican Congressman David Jolly is leading the race for his party’s nomination, hoping to prove Democrats can once again compete statewide after several difficult election cycles.
Senate Primary Shapes November Matchup
Florida voters are also deciding the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate special election. State Rep. Angie Nixon is competing against retired Army Lt. Col. Alex Vindman, who became nationally known after testifying during Trump’s first impeachment proceedings in 2019.
The winner will face Republican Sen. Ashley Moody in November. Moody, who was appointed to the seat after Marco Rubio became U.S. secretary of state, enters the race with Trump’s endorsement and is widely viewed as the favorite in the Republican primary.
Congressional Battles Highlight Redistricting Debate
Several congressional primaries are drawing national attention following Florida’s newly redrawn congressional districts.
One of the most closely watched races features longtime Democratic Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, who is seeking another term in a newly configured, plurality-Black district. She faces four Black Democratic challengers, including former Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.
The campaign has sparked debate over representation and experience. Addressing the issue, Wasserman Schultz said, “Representation matters and lived experience matters. But experience and making sure that you have someone who has the seniority and the seasoning to be able to deliver for a district, it matters as well.”
Meanwhile, Republican Rep. Cory Mills is defending his seat while facing primary challengers after losing support from several prominent Republicans, including DeSantis.
Turnout May Offer Early Election Clues
Political observers are watching voter turnout closely because it could provide insight into the general election. Republicans now hold a voter registration advantage in Florida, making turnout an important measure of enthusiasm for both parties.
Miami-Dade County will receive particular attention after its dramatic political shift in recent elections. Once considered a Democratic stronghold, the county has moved significantly toward Republicans, making it an important indicator of whether either party is gaining momentum heading into November.
Looking Ahead to November
Florida’s primary elections will help shape one of the nation’s most competitive political battlegrounds ahead of the general election. Beyond determining party nominees, the results will measure Trump’s continued influence among Republican voters, test Democratic efforts to rebuild statewide support, and provide an early preview of the political environment heading into November’s elections.
