Democrats Shatter Fundraising Records in Florida Special Elections for GOP Strongholds

Despite raising over $16 million, Democratic candidates face steep odds in two heavily Republican districts as early voting begins tomorrow.

Democratic candidates Gay Valimont and Josh Weil have raised a combined $16 million, significantly outpacing their Republican opponents' $3.1 million total.
Grassroots enthusiasm is driving the Democratic campaigns, with 75% of their contributions coming from small-dollar donors of $200 or less.
The elections are being held to fill vacancies left by GOP Reps. Matt Gaetz and Michael Waltz, who resigned for roles in the Trump administration.
Donald Trump has endorsed Republican candidates Jimmy Patronis and Randy Fine in districts he won by over 30 percentage points in the last presidential election.
The Democratic National Committee has invested in organizing and voter protection efforts, while the Republican Party of Florida and allied PACs have ramped up ad spending ahead of early voting.