Florida Voters Head to Polls for Midterm Elections Amid Weather Disruptions
State officials have relocated polling sites in seven counties due to severe flooding as residents cast ballots in key congressional and local races.
Voters across Florida participated in the 2026 midterm elections on Tuesday, casting ballots for a wide range of state and federal offices. Polls opened statewide at 7 a.m. and remained accessible until 7 p.m., with election officials confirming that any individuals in line by the closing time would be permitted to complete their vote.
The electoral process faced logistical challenges in several regions due to heavy rainfall and flash flooding that occurred between October 31 and November 2. In response, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 26-227, declaring a state of emergency for Brevard, DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Indian River, Martin, and St. Lucie counties. This order authorized local supervisors of elections to establish alternative voting locations where standard sites were rendered inaccessible by storm damage or power outages.
The Florida Department of State maintained an updated list of these temporary polling sites to assist affected voters. For example, in Highlands County, the polling location for Precinct 20 was moved from the Spring Lake Community Center to the Penny Ogg Operations Center in Sebring. Similar relocations were implemented in other affected counties, including Palm Beach and St. Lucie, where voters were directed to community centers and municipal buildings.
The ballot features significant contests, including the race for Florida governor between Byron Donalds and David Jolly, as well as elections for attorney general, agriculture commissioner, and chief financial officer. Voters are also deciding on a U.S. Senate seat and numerous congressional districts across the state. In South Florida, residents are determining representation for several U.S. House districts, while local voters in Miami are considering a referendum regarding the lease of land on Virginia Key for marina redevelopment.
In addition to candidate races, Floridians are voting on three state amendments, which include proposals regarding the budget stabilization fund, property tax exemptions for agricultural land, and adjustments to homestead exemptions. Local school board referendums are also on the ballot in some jurisdictions, such as Miami-Dade, where voters are deciding on the renewal of funding to supplement staff salaries without increasing taxes.
Election officials emphasized that voters must report to their specifically assigned polling locations on Election Day, noting that this requirement differs from the rules during early voting periods. To ensure a smooth process, the state requires voters to present a valid photo ID that includes a signature, such as a driver's license, U.S. passport, or military identification. As the polls close, election authorities are preparing to begin the tabulation process, with initial results expected to be released starting at 8 p.m.