Florida Democrats finalize primary candidates for 2026 elections in major cities

Florida Democrats have set the stage for their primary elections on August 18, 2026, with candidates finalized for key races in Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. These primaries will determine the party's nominees who will go on to challenge for various offices in the general elections scheduled for November 3, 2026.

In Miami-Dade County, voters will choose from a list of Democratic candidates for multiple administrative and legislative positions. Similarly, the Orange County Supervisor of Elections has released the official ballot for the central Florida region, outlining the contenders for local and legislative posts. The Hillsborough County electorate also faces a diverse slate of candidates for their local and legislative nominations.

Notably, six candidates are competing for the Democratic nomination for governor. Among them, activist Evelyn Castillo-Bach advocates for banning medical debt, while Air Force veteran Thomas Fernandez prioritizes improving healthcare access and affordable housing. Civil rights attorney and state representative Dotie Joseph is pushing for legislative reforms to lower food and fuel costs. Other gubernatorial hopefuls include Stephann Norman and David Jolly, who has amassed significant financial contributions. Dayna Foster rounds out the field of six candidates.