Five Primary Challengers Mount Campaigns Against Sen. Ashley Moody in Florida Special Election

Floridians will cast ballots Tuesday in a special primary election to determine who will challenge U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody, the Republican who assumed office in 2025 following Marco Rubio’s confirmation as secretary of state. Three Republican candidates and two Democrats are competing in the race, each presenting distinct visions for the seat and the state’s future.

Moody, who previously served as Florida’s attorney general before her gubernatorial appointment to the Senate, has highlighted her legislative record in recent months. Her campaign emphasizes regulatory changes benefiting the state’s citrus sector and the successful acquisition of billions in federal disaster relief funding for Florida communities.

The Republican primary field includes Chris Gleason, an Army veteran and data forensics professional who emphasizes his background uncovering corruption and fraud allegations. Also competing is Dr. Neelam Taneja Perry, a physician advocating for expanded individual rights, and Pastor Ernie Rivera, who brings experience in finance and housing management to address South Florida’s ongoing affordability crisis.

On the Democratic side, State Rep. Angie Nixon of Jacksonville, a six-year legislative veteran and native Floridian, is campaigning on affordability and economic fairness. Her platform centers on prioritizing constituents’ needs over political and corporate interests.

Retired Army Lt. Col. Alex Vindman, who relocated to Florida three years ago with his family, is the second Democratic candidate. A Purple Heart recipient wounded in Iraq and known for his testimony during former President Donald Trump’s first impeachment, Vindman is advocating for housing accessibility and reduced healthcare expenses as pathways to restoring opportunity for Floridians.