Florida

Former Air Force Colonel and Physician Rudolph Moise Seeks Florida Congressional Seat Vacated by Frederica Wilson

Published

1 month ago

May 30, 2026

MIAMI, Fla. (FNN) — South Florida Congresswoman Frederica Wilson has announced she will not seek reelection to Florida’s 24th Congressional District, creating an open-seat race that is expected to draw significant attention ahead of the 2026 election cycle.

Even before Wilson’s retirement announcement became public, Dr. Rudolph “Rudy” Moise had already shifted his political focus. Moise withdrew from the crowded race for Florida’s 20th Congressional District to pursue a campaign for the seat currently held by Wilson.

Moise Brings Military, Medical, Legal, and Business Experience

Moise is a longtime physician, attorney, businessman, and retired U.S. Air Force colonel. Over the years, he has built a public profile through his medical practice, community involvement, and repeated campaigns for federal office in South Florida.

His decision to enter the race immediately positions him among the most recognizable candidates seeking to succeed Wilson in Congress.

No Stranger to Running Against Wilson

Moise is no stranger to challenging Wilson at the ballot box.

He previously mounted two congressional campaigns against the longtime Democratic incumbent but was unsuccessful in his efforts to unseat her. Despite those defeats, Moise maintained a visible presence in South Florida politics and continued advocating on issues related to healthcare, economic development, public safety, and government accountability.

With Wilson now stepping aside, Moise will have his first opportunity to compete for the seat without facing the incumbent congresswoman.

Political observers note that Moise’s prior campaigns have given him valuable name recognition and an established network of supporters throughout Miami-Dade and Broward counties.

Redistricting Could Reshape the Political Landscape

Florida’s congressional map underwent significant changes following redistricting approved by Governor Ron DeSantis. The revised boundaries altered several congressional districts across the state, including portions of South Florida.

The new district configuration could create different political dynamics than those Moise faced during his previous campaigns against Wilson.

As candidates begin to organize for the 2026 election cycle, the open-seat contest is expected to attract a competitive field of Democratic and Republican contenders seeking to represent one of South Florida’s most prominent congressional districts.

With Wilson’s departure ending an era in South Florida politics, voters will soon decide who will succeed the veteran congresswoman and represent Florida’s 24th Congressional District in Washington.

Florida

Vilchez Santiago Wins Union Backing; Daisy Morales Says Voters — Not Political Endorsements — Decide Elections

Published

6 hours ago

July 10, 2026

FNN NEWS

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — The Democratic primary for Florida House District 43 intensified this week after candidate Samuel Vilchez Santiago announced endorsements from a coalition of labor organizations, prompting former State Rep. Daisy Morales to respond that while endorsements are important, elections are ultimately decided by voters.

Vilchez Santiago announced support from 12 labor organizations, including the Florida AFL-CIO, Central Florida AFL-CIO, SEIU Florida, the Florida Education Association, the Orange County Fire Fighters Association, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1625, the Orange County Classroom Teachers Association, the United Auto Workers, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 606, the Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 517, SMART Transportation Division PAC, and the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1596.

“I am incredibly honored to earn the support of these outstanding labor organizations,” Vilchez Santiago said.

He said the endorsements were especially meaningful because he grew up in a union household.

“These endorsements are deeply personal to me. As someone who grew up in a union household, I understand firsthand that unions create pathways into the middle class and give working families the opportunity to build a better future.”

Vilchez Santiago said he would continue advocating for workers’ rights and policies that strengthen Florida’s middle class if elected.

Morales Congratulates Opponent, Recognizes Union Members

In response, Morales congratulated Vilchez Santiago on receiving the endorsements while recognizing the contributions of organized labor across Florida.

“I congratulate Mr. Vilchez Santiago on earning the support of these organizations and appreciate every group that participates in our democratic process,” Morales said.

Morales praised union members working as teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, healthcare professionals, skilled trades workers, transportation employees and others who contribute to Florida’s economy.

“Every worker deserves respect, opportunity, safe workplaces, fair wages, and the opportunity to achieve the American Dream.”

Morales Points to 2020 Democratic Primary

Morales said endorsements are valued but do not determine election outcomes.

She cited the 2020 Democratic Primary for Florida House District 48, when Vilchez Santiago received endorsements from elected officials, political organizations and advocacy groups before Morales defeated him and three other Democratic candidates to win the Democratic nomination.

Following that election, Florida Politics wrote that endorsements “didn’t matter” after Morales emerged victorious.

“That election demonstrated a principle that remains true today,” Morales said. “Political endorsements are valued expressions of support, but they never replace the judgment of the voters. The people—not political insiders or special interests—have the final say on Election Day.”

Morales later won the general election and represented House District 48 from 2020 to 2022.

Contrasting Campaign Messages

The exchange highlights the different messages each campaign is emphasizing as the Aug. 18 Democratic primary approaches.

Vilchez Santiago has focused on labor support, workers’ rights, affordability, housing, healthcare and reducing the influence of special interests.

Morales has centered her campaign on her legislative experience, bipartisan record and accomplishments during her term in the Florida House.

Morales said her official legislative record includes sponsoring and co-sponsoring more than 110 bills during the 2021 and 2022 legislative sessions and helping secure more than $12.5 million in state appropriations supporting higher education, healthcare, workforce development, nonprofit organizations, infrastructure improvements and community projects.

Among the legislative priorities Morales highlighted were educational opportunities for disabled veterans, property tax relief, consumer protection, public safety, workforce development, healthcare initiatives, infrastructure investments and services benefiting veterans, seniors and individuals with disabilities.

“Working families deserve representatives who deliver results—not just campaign promises,” Morales said.

Leadership and Experience

Morales said voters should evaluate candidates based on their accomplishments in public office.

“There is a clear difference in this race. My opponent is asking voters to consider who has endorsed his campaign. I am asking voters to examine my record of public service, legislative accomplishments, and proven results. Experience matters because results matter.”

She encouraged voters to review her official legislative record on the Florida House of Representatives website, which includes sponsored and co-sponsored legislation, committee assignments, voting history and appropriations.

Primary Election Approaches

The Democratic primary for Florida House District 43 will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026, with early voting scheduled for Aug. 3–16. The winner will advance to the Nov. 3 general election.

House District 43 includes portions of east Orange County, including Azalea Park, Union Park, Alafaya, Orlando, Rio Pinar and surrounding communities.

Both campaigns are expected to continue emphasizing their respective strengths as voters begin casting ballots in one of Central Florida’s most closely watched Democratic legislative primaries.

Florida

Alex Vindman Campaign Highlights New Endorsements, Fundraising in Florida U.S. Senate Race

Published

11 hours ago

July 10, 2026

FNN NEWS

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Alex Vindman is highlighting growing campaign momentum following a series of endorsements, strong second-quarter fundraising and recent polling showing a competitive race against Republican Ashley Moody.

Campaign Raises $8.5 Million in Second Quarter

Vindman’s campaign announced it raised $8.5 million during the second quarter of 2026 from more than 114,000 unique donors.

According to the campaign, the average contribution was $35, which it says reflects broad grassroots support as the Senate race intensifies.

Veterans Caucus Endorses Vindman

The Democratic Veterans Caucus of Florida endorsed Vindman on July 10, citing his military service and leadership.

“Lt. Col. (Ret.) Alex Vindman has committed his life to serving our nation and protecting our freedoms,” said Democratic Veterans Caucus President Danny Fuqua. “During his 21-year Army career, he served presidents of both parties, and we know he will focus on representing Floridians, not special interests.”

Vindman thanked the organization and pledged to focus on lowering costs for Floridians, combating corruption in Washington and supporting veterans.

Debra Tendrich Announces Endorsement

On July 8, Lake Worth Beach Commissioner Debra Tendrich endorsed Vindman, describing him as an independent-minded leader who would prioritize Florida families.

“Floridians deserve leaders like Alex who will stand up for our interests,” Tendrich said.

Vindman contrasted his campaign with Republican opponent Ashley Moody, saying he would focus on reducing housing, insurance and utility costs while refusing contributions from corporate special interests.

State Sen. Tina Polsky Backs Campaign

State Sen. Tina Polsky became the latest Democratic lawmaker to endorse Vindman on July 6.

Polsky praised Vindman’s willingness to challenge corruption and said he would fight for affordable health care and lower costs for Floridians.

Vindman reiterated his campaign’s message that he will not accept contributions from corporate political action committees and will focus on addressing rising living expenses.

Competitive Senate Race

The campaign said multiple recent polls show Vindman running in a competitive contest against Republican Ashley Moody, setting the stage for one of Florida’s most closely watched races in the 2026 election cycle.

The general election is scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026.

Central Florida News

Labor Unions Back Samuel Vilchez Santiago as Democratic Primary Battle With Daisy Morales Intensifies

Published

2 days ago

July 9, 2026

FNN NEWS

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Democratic candidate Samuel Vilchez Santiago has announced endorsements from a coalition of labor organizations as he seeks the Democratic nomination for Florida House District 43, setting up a high-profile primary contest against former State Rep. Daisy Morales.

The endorsements come as both candidates intensify their campaigns ahead of Florida’s Aug. 18 Democratic Primary, where voters will decide who advances to the November general election.

Broad Labor Coalition Backs Vilchez Santiago

Vilchez Santiago announced support from 12 labor organizations representing workers in education, healthcare, public safety, transportation, construction and other industries.

The endorsing organizations include:

Florida AFL-CIO
Central Florida AFL-CIO
SEIU Florida
Florida Education Association
Orange County Fire Fighters Association
United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1625
Orange County Classroom Teachers Association
United Auto Workers
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 606
Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 517
SMART Transportation Division PAC
Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1596

Vilchez Santiago: ‘These Endorsements Are Deeply Personal’

In announcing the endorsements, Vilchez Santiago said organized labor has shaped both his family’s experience and his policy priorities.

“I am incredibly honored to earn the support of these outstanding labor organizations,” Vilchez Santiago said.

He added:

“These endorsements are deeply personal to me. As someone who grew up in a union household, I understand firsthand that unions create pathways into the middle class and give working families the opportunity to build a better future.”

Vilchez Santiago pledged to continue advocating for workers’ rights if elected to the Florida House.

Primary Contest Revives Familiar Political Rivalry

The endorsements add another chapter to an increasingly competitive Democratic primary between Vilchez Santiago and Morales.

The two candidates previously faced each other in the 2020 Democratic primary for what was then Florida House District 48. Morales defeated Vilchez Santiago and went on to win the general election, serving one term in the Florida House from 2020 to 2022.

Following legislative redistricting, both candidates are now seeking the Democratic nomination in House District 43, creating a rematch between two well-known Democratic figures in Central Florida politics.

Competing Messages to Democratic Voters

Vilchez Santiago has centered his campaign on issues including workers’ rights, affordable housing, healthcare access and support for organized labor.

Morales has emphasized her legislative record, highlighting more than 110 bills she sponsored or co-sponsored that became law, as well as funding secured for local projects during her time in office. Her campaign has argued that voters should compare legislative accomplishments and experience when choosing their next state representative.

The labor endorsements provide Vilchez Santiago with additional organizational support as both campaigns work to mobilize Democratic voters before early voting begins.

Key Background

Samuel Vilchez Santiago

Democrat seeking election to Florida House District 43.
Former chairman of the Orange County Democratic Party.
Previously served as Senior Manager at ActBlue.
Was the Democratic nominee defeated by Daisy Morales in the 2020 House District 48 primary.

Daisy Morales

Former Florida State Representative (2020–2022).
Former Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District Supervisor.
Campaigning on her legislative experience, bipartisan accomplishments and record of securing funding for Central Florida communities.

Race to Watch

Florida House District 43 is expected to be one of Central Florida’s most closely watched Democratic legislative primaries.

With endorsements, fundraising and voter outreach accelerating, both candidates are expected to continue drawing support from elected officials, community organizations and advocacy groups throughout the campaign.

The Democratic primary will be held Aug. 18, 2026, with early voting scheduled for Aug. 3–16. The winner will advance to the Nov. 3, 2026, general election.