Florida's 2026 midterm election candidates finalized after primaries

Florida's midterm elections for governor and the Senate have finalized their candidate lists following the primary elections held on August 18. The race for governor will feature Republican Byron Donalds, a federal congressman, against Democrat David Jolly, a former federal representative.

Donalds secured the Republican nomination after winning an internal contest against other party members, including Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins. He had the backing of former President Donald Trump and reportedly raised nearly $100 million for his campaign. Jolly, who previously switched from the Republican to the Democratic party and has been a vocal critic of Trump, won the Democratic nomination.

Meanwhile, the special election for the Florida Senate seat vacated by Marco Rubio will pit Republican Ashley Moody against Democrat Angie Nixon. Moody, currently serving as interim senator appointed by Governor DeSantis, won her party's primary. Nixon, a state representative, unexpectedly defeated former National Security Council advisor Alex Vindman in the Democratic primary, despite Vindman having raised significantly more campaign funds.

Nixon's victory was considered a surprise, as her campaign reportedly raised around $709,000 compared to Vindman's $9 million. The winner of the November election will complete the remainder of Rubio's term. Governor Ron DeSantis was not a candidate, as Florida's constitution limits governors to two consecutive terms.