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Florida GOP Retirements Ignite 2026 Election Race

2/7/2026

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Center

Florida Republicans Retire

Three Florida House Republicans, including Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.) and Rep. Neal Dunn (R-Fla.), retire ahead of the 2026 election.
The retirements open the field for candidates, including Chris Collins, a pardoned felon, and Jon Harris, a combat veteran.
Redistricting uncertainty could redraw district boundaries ahead of the 2026 elections.
On the Democratic side, former Rep. Gwen Graham and other notable figures eye open seats.

Right

Eddie Speir Challenges

Eddie Speir challenges the Florida GOP establishment in the August 18 primary.
He won nearly 40% against incumbent Rep. Vern Buchanan in 2024.
With Buchanan's retirement, Speir says he can capitalize on momentum and distance his agenda from Trump's machine.
He may face Joe Gruters, a Trump ally, and Rep. Mike Beltran.
Speir's appointment to the New College of Florida board and its Senate rejection raised his profile.

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Florida Republicans Retire

Three Florida House Republicans, including Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.) and Rep. Neal Dunn (R-Fla.), retire ahead of the 2026 election.
The retirements open the field for candidates, including Chris Collins, a pardoned felon, and Jon Harris, a combat veteran.
Redistricting uncertainty could redraw district boundaries ahead of the 2026 elections.
On the Democratic side, former Rep. Gwen Graham and other notable figures eye open seats.

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