Florida Senate Vote Closes

The polls closed at 7:00 p.m. local time on Monday, ending the first ballot measure in Florida's special election for the U.S. Senate. This contest seeks to fill the remainder of Marco Rubio's term, which extends through January 2029.

Three candidates competed in the race held in November 2026. Incumbent Ashley Moody, a Republican appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis in January 2025, ran against Democratic state Rep. Angie Nixon. Neil Gillespie, a candidate with no party affiliation, also appeared on the ballot.

Moody assumed the seat after Rubio became U.S. secretary of state. The original 2022 election for the full term was won by Rubio, who defeated Val Demings with 57.7% of the vote to her 41.3%. The current special election covers the remaining period of that original mandate.

This Florida race is one of two special elections for U.S. Senate seats occurring this year, the other being in Ohio. Nationwide, 35 Senate seats are on the ballot during these midterm elections. Republicans currently hold a 53-47 majority in the chamber.

Democrats require a net gain of four seats to secure control of the Senate. The outcome in Florida will determine whether the party gains one of those necessary seats or maintains the status quo. Results from the interactive bar are available for tracking following the close of voting in the western Panhandle at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time.