Republicans Randy Patronis and Mike Fine are projected to win the Florida special elections for the 1st and 6th Congressional Districts, respectively. Fine will replace Michael Waltz, who resigned his seat to become President Donald Trump’s national security advisor. Patronis will take the seat vacated by former Rep. Matt Gaetz.
At publishing time, Fine leads the Democrat, schoolteacher Josh Weil, with 53.9% of the vote (82% reporting).
The 6th CD seat, which was once held by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, was projected to be a safe one for Republicans.
There was some last-minute drama. My colleague Rick Moran wrote earlier today:
“We are annoyed but not worried,” said one national GOP strategist. “Annoyed Fine hasn’t done jack s**t for himself and is counting on the ecosystem to bail him out,” he added. The politico spoke on the condition he wouldn’t be identified.
That “ecosystem” is a nearly 4-1 GOP registration advantage in Florida 6. DeSantis thinks that this factor alone will push Fine over the finish line. But the margins of victory will have Democrats attempting to gin up enthusiasm among their base supporters for coming close.
The Democrat reportedly raised $10 million to Fine’s $1 million, but in the end, the Republican prevailed.
Trump endorsed Fine in December:
I am honored and humbled to be @realDonaldTrump ‘s pick for Florida’s 6th Congressional District. I won’t let him — or you — down. #ItsGoingToBeFine pic.twitter.com/uaqWXPlXDq
— Senator Randy Fine (@VoteRandyFine) December 14, 2024
… and Fine gave the president credit for his victory.
Because of you, Mr. President.
I won’t let you down. pic.twitter.com/AH8XLjYJde
— Senator Randy Fine (@VoteRandyFine) April 1, 2025
Republican Jimmy Patronis is projected to win Florida’s 1st Congressional District. He leads Democrat Gay Valimont, 56.3%-42.8%.
See the complete results, courtesy of Decision Desk HQ, below:
