Florida Senate Race Tightens to 8-Point Gap in Final Week

A new statewide survey by Co/efficient places incumbent Republican Senate candidate Ashley Moody at 48 percent and Democratic challenger Rep. Angie Nixon at 40 percent. The eight-point deficit leaves Nixon with a 15-point advantage among independent and unaffiliated voters. Seven days remain before Election Day.

In-person early voting is scheduled to continue through Sunday, Nov. 1. Voters must hand-deliver any vote-by-mail ballots to a local supervisor of elections office by 7 p.m. on Tuesday. Mail ballots cannot be dropped off at neighborhood precincts on Election Day. Hillsborough County maintains 27 early voting locations daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Nov. 1. Regular precincts will operate from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday.

The gubernatorial race features Republican nominee Byron Donalds and Democratic nominee David Jolly. Both candidates are using heavy advertising and grassroots efforts after holding no general election debates. Donalds has toured the state discussing economic growth and property insurance reform. Jolly, a former Republican congressman, is targeting moderate and independent voters with pledges for housing and healthcare investment.

Donalds stated, "We're going to lower insurance premiums 20% here in the state, great state of Florida, Amendment 3 [is] on the ballot, that's in your hands." He added that the campaign is committed to lowering property taxes for residents and seniors while building the economy for high-paying jobs.

Jolly said, "The economy should work for everybody, that government is going to do a little bit to improve our lives, invest in housing, health care and education." He argued that government must respect the dignity of all citizens while addressing national division.

Amendment 3, a constitutional revision requiring 60 percent approval, proposes expanding the homestead exemption to provide property tax relief. Supporters argue the change shields homeowners from rising costs and limits local discretionary spending. Opponents, including law enforcement and fire rescue leaders in Tampa, warn that reduced local revenue without a dedicated funding source will cut public safety, emergency medical units, jails, and road maintenance.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd spoke against the measure during a coalition gathering. He asked, "How much protection do you want? Or do you want to buy a shovel and clean out your own stormwater ditch?" Judd noted that services like animal control and detectives face cuts if the amendment passes. He stated, "Make no mistake, services will be cut."

Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer urged voters to plan their votes in advance. He said, "A lot of people are working two jobs. It's going to be difficult for them but be able to get in one window and be able to vote." Election administrators recommend reviewing sample ballots at home and checking county websites for photo ID requirements and live wait times before traveling.