More than a week after Election Day, the last close congressional races in Florida have finally been called, including two right here in Central Florida.
District 7: Ryan Elijah Wins by a Hair
Republican Ryan Elijah has won Florida’s 7th Congressional District, which covers Seminole County and part of Volusia County. In unofficial results, he won by about half a percentage point.
Democrat Bale Dalton conceded on Tuesday. He lost by 1,631 votes in a district that President Trump carried by 13 points in 2024. In his concession, Dalton congratulated Elijah and said he hopes the new congressman will work for all Central Floridians. He added that he plans to keep looking for ways to serve.
District 9: Darren Soto Holds On
Democratic Rep. Darren Soto holds about a half-point lead over Republican Dan Green in Florida’s 9th District. Soto’s campaign says Green has not conceded.
What makes Soto’s race stand out is the map. Republicans redrew Florida’s congressional districts this year, and Soto’s home county of Osceola was reshaped in a way that put him at a 17-point disadvantage on paper. He still came out ahead.
No Recounts
Unofficial results released Saturday confirmed that neither Central Florida race was close enough to trigger a recount.
The Statewide Picture
Republicans redrew the map this year aiming to gain ground in half of the eight Florida congressional seats held by Democrats. In the end, Democrats held onto all eight. Analysts pointed to strong turnout among Democratic voters and some backlash against Republicans.
What’s Next
Florida will adopt its final, official vote totals next Tuesday. After that, the results become certified, and the winners will head to Washington when the new Congress is sworn in.
For voters in Seminole, Volusia and Osceola counties, these razor-thin results are a strong reminder that every vote really does count.