While the legislative session doesn’t begin until the first week of March, the 2026 election cycle is already in full swing. Naples Congressman Byron Donalds made it official on the Sean Hannity Show—he’s running for Governor. With Governor Ron DeSantis term-limited after a landslide re-election victory, the race to succeed him is expected to be highly competitive. However, Donalds enters the race with an early advantage, having secured the “total and complete” endorsement of President Donald Trump.
Another key race to watch is Florida’s U.S. Senate seat currently held by former Attorney General Ashley Moody. Following the announcement that Senator Marco Rubio had been tapped and confirmed as U.S. Secretary of State, Governor DeSantis appointed Moody to fill the vacancy. Just days after Donalds launched his campaign for governor, Senator Moody announced she will run to keep her seat.
With Moody moving to the Senate, Governor DeSantis appointed his Chief of Staff, James Uthmeier, as Florida’s new Attorney General. Sworn into office in late February, Attorney General Uthmeier wasted no time declaring his candidacy for a full term, enjoying the benefits of incumbency as he gears up for the election.
Special Elections on the Horizon
Before we get to 2026, several key elections will take place this year to fill congressional and legislative vacancies across the state. If you live in Congressional District 1 (Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, and part of Walton) or Congressional District 6 (Flagler, Putnam, and parts of Lake, Marion, St. Johns, and Volusia), take note of these important dates:
- March 3: Last day to register to vote
- March 20: Deadline to request a vote-by-mail ballot
- March 22-29: Mandatory early voting period
- April 1: Election Day
Additionally, three more special elections will take place on June 10 to fill vacancies in:
- Florida House District 32 (Brevard County)
- Senate District 19 (Brevard)
- Florida House District 3 (Okaloosa and Santa Rosa counties)
With major political shifts on the horizon and several key elections coming up, Florida voters have plenty to watch in the months ahead. Stay informed, get involved, and make sure your voice is heard at the ballot box!