Florida Primary Races Set Stage for Fall Battles Over Trump's Political Sway
Florida primaries for governor and Congress will gauge Trump's influence and Democratic prospects in a state that has trended right.
Florida voters are casting ballots in primary elections that will shape the November general election, offering a key test of former President Donald Trump's political influence in his adopted home state. The races come as the state's political landscape has shifted significantly to the right over the past decade.
In the Republican gubernatorial primary, U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds is seeking to become Florida's first Black governor, backed by Trump's endorsement. He faces competition from Lt. Gov. Jay Collins and political newcomer James Fishback. The winner will advance to face Democrat David Jolly, a former Republican congressman who switched parties last year.
Governor Ron DeSantis, who has had a complex relationship with Trump, is unable to seek a third consecutive term. His successor will inherit a state where registered Republicans now outnumber Democrats, a recent flip that underscores the political shift.
Democrats are also watching a Senate special election primary, where progressive state lawmaker Angie Nixon is challenging retired Army Lt. Col. Alex Vindman, who testified during Trump's first impeachment. The winner will face Sen. Ashley Moody, the Republican appointee who holds the seat and has Trump's endorsement.
One of the most contentious congressional races is in a redrawn south Florida district. Incumbent Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, who is white, is seeking a 12th term in a newly configured plurality Black district. She faces several Black challengers, including former Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, who is attempting a comeback despite a pending federal indictment.
In another race, Republican Rep. Cory Mills is seeking a third term while denying domestic violence allegations. He has lost support from DeSantis and other party figures.
The primary results will provide insight into both parties' strength heading into November, with Miami-Dade County emerging as a key bellwether. Democrats once carried the county by wide margins, but Trump won it in 2024 by more than 11 points.