Republican state sen defeats Democrat opponent in key congressional race

Republican Florida State Sen. Randy Fine defeated Democratic candidate Josh Weil on Tuesday in Florida’s special election for its 6th Congressional District.

The Associated Press called the race at about 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, with Fine notching 53.8% of the votes while Weil secured 45.5%. Florida’s 2025 special elections drew national attention with many waiting to see whether the races’ outcomes would give congressional Republicans more breathing room in the House, where they hold an extremely narrow majority.

Fine’s victory expands the Republican majority in the House, with Republicans now occupying 219 seats to Democrats’ 213.

The red state also held a separate special election on Tuesday for its 1st Congressional District, which was last represented by former Republican Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz. The state’s special elections also received increased attention after President Donald Trump pulled Republican New York Rep. Elise Stefanik’s name from consideration for United Nations Ambassador to avoid further tightening congressional Republicans’ razor-thin majority.

Weil massively outraised Fine in his congressional campaign, raising over $9 million, compared to about $1 million raised by Fine.

Florida has been viewed as a stronghold for the Republican Party for many years, with the Democratic Party last holding the state’s 6th Congressional District in 1989. The state’s 6th Congressional District was last represented by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.

Trump — a Florida resident — endorsed Fine in November, saying he would make an “incredible fighter” in Congress. Trump wrote in a Tuesday social media post that Fine is a “tremendous Voice for MAGA [Make America Great Again].”

“America First Patriot Randy Fine is running to represent the Wonderful People of Florida’s 6th Congressional District!” Trump wrote in the social media post. “A highly successful, Harvard educated businessman, and greatly respected State Legislator, Randy has been a tremendous Voice for MAGA. In Congress, Randy will be an incredible fighter, who will work tirelessly with me to Strengthen our Economy, Lower Taxes, Secure the Border, Champion our Military/Vets, Ensure American Energy DOMINANCE, Protect our always under siege Second Amendment, and Advance PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.”

Trump won Florida in the 2024 presidential election with 56.1% of the vote, while former Vice President Kamala Harris notched 43%. Moreover, Trump carried Florida’s 6th Congressional District in 2024, winning by 30 points.

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