Election Day is November 5th, and Florida has already begun sending out military ballots, with votes starting to come in. The last day to register to vote is October 7, and the final deadline for vote-by-mail requests—previously known as absentee ballots—is October 24.. Early voting opens from October 26 to November 2, with optional earlier dates potentially available on a county-by-county basis. As vote-by-mail ballots will begin hitting mailboxes soon, now is the time to ensure you’re prepared.
As election day approaches, we’re pleased to share that many of our RV champions, those involved in transportation and economic development, who we have supported in the past are well on their way to victory. While the balance of power is unlikely to change significantly, a few key races deserve attention. The 2023-2024 political cycle ended with 28 Republicans and 12 Democrats, and while we don’t expect much change in the numbers, we will welcome six new Senators to the chamber . However, one race remains that primary focus by both parties is District 3. Incumbent Senator Corey Simon, a former Florida State and NFL standout, is defending his seat against well-funded trial attorney Daryl Parks.
In the House, 85 Republicans were elected in 2022, marking the largest majority in Florida’s history. Following a special election that flipped District 35 (Orange and Osceola) to Democratic control, Republicans still hold an 84-member majority. Overall, 100 of the 120 current members are running for re-election, leaving 20 open seats to be decided in November.
The House tends to experience the most change during presidential election cycles due to increased turnout at the top of the ticket. Expect stability in the panhandle, Northeast Florida, and Southwest Florida, while the I-4 corridor and Southeast Florida will be pivotal.
In St. Petersburg’s District 60, first-term representative Lindsey Cross is a top target for state Democrats, facing popular local official Ed Montinari, who poses a strong challenge for Republicans. Another key race is District 65, where Republican Karen Gonzalez-Pittman is being contested by a candidate focusing on social issues, potentially making history as the first openly transgender member of the Florida legislature if elected.
The most competitive counties—Orlando, Osceola, and Seminole—will likely determine the majority. Incumbent Republicans Carolina Amesty (District 45), Paul Start (District 47), and Susan Placensia (District 37) face significant challenges to maintain their seats.
Republicans are expected to hold their ground from Brevard County south to Martin County, although incumbent Dana Trabulsy (District 84) in St. Lucie County will have a fight on her hands to return for her third term. The southeastern gauntlet kicks off in traditionally blue Palm Beach County, where House Democrats are targeting Peggy Gossette-Seidman in District 91 for a potential flip, while Republicans aim to turn District 93, currently held by Katherine Waldron.
Miami-Dade represents the final frontier for Republicans. If countywide turnout mirrors 2020 results, Republicans could maintain control of Miami Beach and downtown districts for consecutive years. Fabian Basabe flipped District 106 red for the first time, while Vicki Lopez reclaimed District 113 for Republicans after years of Democratic control.
As mailboxes fill, TV ads fill the airwaves, and phones buzz with political messages, one thing is clear: every campaign is laser-focused on driving voter turnout. Remember, every vote counts—request your vote-by-mail ballot, plan to vote early, or prepare to cast your ballot on Election Day!
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