This Tuesday marks the primary elections in the state of Florida, where voters will choose representatives for the House of Representatives and the Senate, as well as mayors, commissioners, school board members, judges, and other local positions. The polling stations opened at 7:00 am, and pre-registered residents can vote until 7:00 pm.
In Miami-Dade County, there are 1,473,383 registered voters, of which 201,391 opted to vote by mail. Mayor Daniella Levine Cava is seeking re-election for a second term. The Democratic politician urged voters to head to the polls in a message on her Twitter account on Monday: "Miami-Dade, tomorrow is Election Day! All our hard work has led us to this moment, and I am immensely grateful for your support. Let's make history together again and continue our progress for another four years. If you haven't voted yet, remember to cast your ballot in your precinct tomorrow."
Levine Cava is facing six Republican challengers: Miami Lakes Mayor Manny Cid, former Surfside Mayor Shlomo Danzinger, former candidate for Florida's 28th congressional district Carlos Garín, trapeze artist Miguel Quintero, freight and transportation executive Eddy Rojas, and Cuban-American influencer Alexander Otaola. The winner must secure more than 50% of the votes; otherwise, a runoff will be necessary.
For the first time in over 60 years, Miami-Dade will hold its inaugural sheriff nomination election, with candidates from each party competing in November. There are 11 Republican and four Democratic candidates. Christina White, the county's elections supervisor, told Local 10 that the term "primary" might mislead some voters, particularly those without any party affiliation, into thinking this election does not apply to them.
"Many unaffiliated voters have told me they believe these are not elections in which they can vote, and nothing could be further from the truth. All 1.5 million registered voters in Miami-Dade are eligible," White clarified.
Florida operates under a closed primary system, meaning only voters registered with political parties can vote for their party's candidates or nominees. White noted that voter turnout in Miami-Dade has been slow but reported no issues at polling locations.
Key Information About Miami-Dade Primary Elections
The following questions and answers provide essential information regarding the Miami-Dade primary elections, voter eligibility, and other relevant details.
Who is running for re-election in Miami-Dade?
Mayor Daniella Levine Cava is seeking re-election for a second term.
How many voters are registered in Miami-Dade County?
There are 1,473,383 registered voters in Miami-Dade County.
What is the significance of the Miami-Dade sheriff nomination election?
This is the first sheriff nomination election in Miami-Dade in over 60 years, with candidates from each party set to compete in November.
Can unaffiliated voters participate in the primary elections?
Yes, all 1.5 million registered voters in Miami-Dade, including those without party affiliation, are eligible to vote.