Florida Democrats chase momentum

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(The Center Square) – On the heels of flipping two formerly red seats in Florida last week, the Democratic National Committee launched a voter registration program during a midterm year for the first time.

The program underway includes several events statewide, including in Miami, Jacksonville, Orlando and Gainesville. Democrats gained legislative seats in the Senate race in Tampa Bay and the House district encompassing second-term Republican President Donald Trump’s home in Palm Beach County.

“This victory reiterates an undeniable trend in Florida: with year round organizing and infrastructure investment, Democrats can run and win anywhere – including Donald Trump’s backyard,” said state Democratic Party Chairwoman Nikki Fried. “Floridians are tired of the chaos, corruption, and sky high prices on everything from groceries, to gas, and health care.”

Veteran Brian Nathan secured the District 14 seat previously held by Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, defeating the Republican opponent who has served in the Legislature since 2018.

Meanwhile, small business owner and Army spouse Emily Gregory defeated Trump’s endorsed candidate to serve District 87. Both Nathan and Gregory will still have to run again in November.

The DNC’s voter registration push includes 75% more events this year than it did during its National Voter Registration Day last fall. It represents the first time the DNC has done partisan registration during a midterm election year, emphasizing a capitalization on last week’s wins in the hopes to generate more in November.

While Democrats are touting the victories as a sign of more to come, Republicans have downplayed it. The Senate has been majority Republican since the 1994 midterms and today is 27-12 with one independent. House majority has been Republican since 1996 and today is 85-34 with one vacancy.

“The left is celebrating two low-turnout special elections,” said Rep. Juan Porras, R-Miami. “Meanwhile, we are focused on property tax relief, lower costs, and keeping Florida free. That is the work that actually matters and what will win in November.”

The DNC also launched a Political Playbook on Monday teaching organizers how to build campaigns. It includes case studies on engaging small businesses and polling on Black and Latino groups.

“At the DNC, our motto is when we organize everywhere, we can win anywhere,” said DNC Chairman Ken Martin. “We’re putting that belief into action as we invest in on-the-ground organizing that prioritizes listening to voters and earning their support. Democrats have won tough races up and down the ballot through aggressive, innovative organizing and clear communication – and we’re thrilled to continue building on that momentum with this new playbook as we level up our organizing to meet the moment, starting with our upcoming Voter Registration Week of Action.”