Key Outcomes from the 2026 Primaries in Florida and Beyond

As the lengthy and contentious primary season approaches its conclusion, Democratic voters in Florida have nominated a progressive candidate for the Senate. In a parallel development, President Donald Trump’s endorsed candidate, Republican Rep. Byron Donalds, secured the nomination to become Florida’s first Black governor. The state’s redistricting, led by Republicans, has caused significant disruption to congressional boundaries, affecting incumbents. Meanwhile, voters in Alaska, Wyoming, and California sorted through crowded fields to select their nominees, including cases where candidates shared surnames.

Significant Outcomes from the Primaries

Donalds Joins Historic Group of Black Gubernatorial Candidates

Byron Donalds, a prominent figure in the Republican Party, clinched the Republican nomination to succeed outgoing Gov. Ron DeSantis. This positions him among a groundbreaking group of Black gubernatorial nominees nationwide. Others in this group include Republicans Rep. John James from Michigan and Lisa Demuth from Minnesota. On the Democratic side, nominees include David Crowley in Wisconsin, Attorney General Aaron Ford in Nevada, State Rep. Jermaine Johnson in South Carolina, and Keisha Lance Bottoms in Georgia.

Currently, Democrat Wes Moore of Maryland is the only Black governor in the US, and he seeks reelection this November. Donalds will compete against David Jolly, a former Republican who has shifted to Democrat, in the Florida race.

Wasserman Schultz Secures Redistricted Florida Seat

In Florida, the Republican-led redistricting led to complex races for Democrats. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz emerged victorious in a challenging contest, defeating Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick and three other Black candidates in a predominantly Black district. Cherfilus-McCormick had resigned earlier due to a pending federal indictment yet decided to contest her former seat.

Wasserman Schultz, who served as a national party chair, was the only white candidate in this area of Broward County, which historically sends Black Democrats to Congress. Her entry into the race sparked controversy and accusations of betrayal from a rival candidate.

Trump-Backed Candidate Loses in Turbulent Contest

While Donalds succeeded, the candidate Trump endorsed for his congressional seat, Catalina Lauf, lost to Jim Schwartzel, owner of a conservative radio station. This race included a diverse array of contenders, some with past incarcerations or who have run in different states. Notable participants included ex-Congressmen Madison Cawthorn from North Carolina and Chris Collins from New York, both of whom had resigned amidst scandals.

Progressive Victory Over Establishment Candidate

Progressive state lawmaker Angie Nixon defeated retired Army Lt. Col. Alex Vindman, a high-profile figure from Trump’s impeachment trial. Despite raising less campaign funds, Nixon won decisively and will face interim Sen. Ashley Moody in a race for the remaining term of Marco Rubio’s former Senate seat. Meanwhile, Jared Moskowitz secured a nomination in South Florida, defeating union organizer Oliver Larkin.

Republicans Lose an Incumbent

Republican Cory Mills faced defeat in his bid for reelection, losing to Ryan Elijah. Mills’s campaign was undermined by allegations of domestic violence, which he denies, and a withdrawal of support from key party figures, including DeSantis.

Name Confusion in Alaska Senate Race

In Alaska, incumbent Republican Senator Dan Sullivan faces challenger Dan J. Sullivan Jr., which has caused confusion. Republicans suggest the latter candidate is a distraction inserted by Democrats, a claim he denies. Other contenders include former U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola, who aims to become the first Alaska Native senator.

Another Trump-Endorsed Candidate Fails in Wyoming

While Donalds was successful, Trump’s endorsement of Megan Degenfelder in Wyoming did not lead to victory. State Sen. Eric Barlow emerged as the winner in this race.

Significant Spending in Swalwell’s Former California Seat

Voters in California’s Bay Area are choosing a replacement following Rep. Eric Swalwell’s resignation. Aisha Wahab and Melissa Hernandez advance to the general election, with significant financial influence from pro-Israel groups noted in the campaign. Despite similar spending in Michigan’s Senate primary, Abdul El-Sayed secured victory over a well-funded opponent.