- Angie Nixon scored a major upset over Alex Vindman in the Florida Democratic Senate primary, setting up a general election race against Republican Sen. Ashley Moody, NBC News projects.
- Alex Vindman, a retired lieutenant colonel and Iraq War veteran, was viewed as a heavy favorite against Nixon heading into the contest.
- Nixon regularly criticized Vindman for only recently moving to Florida, emphasizing her campaign's focus on insurgent progressive politics in the state.
- Ashley Moody was appointed to Marco Rubio’s Senate seat in January 2025 and has received endorsements from prominent Florida Republicans, including Donald Trump.
- Moody entered the primary with a significant financial advantage, reporting over $10.8 million in receipts and about $8.4 million cash on hand.
- The special election will determine who serves through the end of Rubio’s term, which ends in January 2029.
Angie Nixon achieved a stunning upset in the Florida Democratic primary, defeating Alex Vindman, a former National Security Council aide and Iraq War veteran, who was considered the frontrunner. Nixon's victory signals a shift in Florida's political landscape, as she represents progressive ideals within the Democratic Party.123
Nixon, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, campaigned on the notion that progressive politics can thrive in Florida, often criticizing Vindman for his recent relocation to the state. Her campaign slogan, 'Florida: the choice is OURS', resonated with voters seeking change.
In the upcoming general election, Nixon will face Republican Sen. Ashley Moody, who has a significant financial edge, reporting over $10.8 million in receipts and $8.4 million cash on hand as of June 30, according to FEC records. Moody, appointed to the Senate in January 2025, has garnered support from key Republican figures, including Donald Trump, who praised her performance in office.456
The special election will determine who serves the remainder of Marco Rubio's term, which ends in January 2029. With both candidates bringing distinct platforms to the table, the race is poised to be highly competitive and closely watched by national observers.7
“Nixon, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, criticized Vindman for his recent move to Florida, emphasizing her campaign's focus on progressive politics. Meanwhile, Moody, who won the GOP primary, has significant financial backing, reporting over $10.8 million in receipts ahead of the special election.”








