Jacksonville, Florida, January 23, 2026
Democratic State Representative Angie Nixon has officially announced her candidacy for Florida’s U.S. Senate seat, aiming to address the state’s growing affordability crisis. Highlighting issues like rising housing costs and healthcare, Nixon’s campaign seeks immediate state leadership action. The incumbent, Ashley Moody, was appointed after Marco Rubio’s resignation. Nixon’s entry into the race reflects a competitive political landscape as both parties gear up for the 2026 election.
Jacksonville, Florida – State Representative Angie Nixon Announces U.S. Senate Candidacy
Jacksonville, Florida – Democratic State Representative Angie Nixon has declared her candidacy for Florida’s U.S. Senate seat, currently held by Republican Ashley Moody. Nixon’s decision to enter the 2026 election is driven by concerns over Florida’s escalating affordability crisis, which she believes has been neglected by current leadership.
Affordability Crisis as a Central Issue
Nixon’s campaign centers around the affordability crisis affecting Floridians, which she has observed during her recent statewide tour. She engaged with a diverse group of constituents, expressing a widespread concern: “We can’t afford to go on like this.” Her focus highlights the surging costs of essential goods and services, including groceries, healthcare, childcare, and notably, property insurance which has doubled in the last four years. Nixon argues that the rising housing costs are pushing residents out of their hometowns and asserts these issues transcend party lines, necessitating immediate action from state leadership.
Background on the Senate Seat and Nixon’s Political Career
This particular U.S. Senate seat was vacated by Marco Rubio, who resigned in January 2025 to transition into his new role as Secretary of State under President Donald Trump. In his absence, Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Ashley Moody, formerly Florida’s Attorney General, to fill the vacancy. Moody took office on January 21, 2025, and is now running for election to complete the remaining term. Angie Nixon, a fifth-generation native of Jacksonville, was first elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2020 and has successfully gained re-election in 2024, positioning her experience and local roots as key components of her campaign. Her advocacy has focused on transparency in law enforcement and improving voter registration, particularly through initiatives like Florida for All.
Reactions and Political Landscape
In response to Nixon’s announcement, the Republican Party of Florida was quick to criticize her candidacy, labeling her as a “far-left crazy person” and expressing strong concerns about her policy positions as a potential threat to the state’s economic framework. Despite Florida’s traditional Republican leanings, Nixon’s entry into the race signifies a rising Democratic optimism, fueled by recent successes in key areas of the state such as the Miami mayoral race. The prospect of the 2026 Senate election reflects an increasingly competitive political landscape where both parties will strategize to secure control of the pivotal Senate seat.
Key Details
| Candidate | Party | Position | Current Office | Election Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angie Nixon | Democratic | Challenger | State Representative, Florida House District 13 | November 3, 2026 |
| Ashley Moody | Republican | Incumbent | U.S. Senator, Florida | November 3, 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Angie Nixon?
Angie Nixon is a Democratic State Representative from Jacksonville, Florida, serving in the Florida House of Representatives since 2020. She has been an advocate for transparency in law enforcement and voter registration.
What is the current status of Florida’s U.S. Senate seat?
The seat was vacated by Marco Rubio, who resigned in January 2025 to become Secretary of State. Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Ashley Moody to fill the vacancy, and she is now seeking election to complete the term.
What are the main issues in the upcoming Senate race?
The primary issue highlighted by Nixon is Florida’s affordability crisis, encompassing rising costs for groceries, healthcare, childcare, property insurance, and housing. Nixon emphasizes the need for leadership that addresses these economic challenges.
How has the Republican Party responded to Nixon’s candidacy?
The Republican Party of Florida has criticized Nixon’s candidacy, labeling her a “far-left crazy person” and expressing concerns that her policy positions could threaten the state’s economic model.
When is the special election for Florida’s U.S. Senate seat scheduled?
The special election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, to elect a member of the United States Senate to represent the state of Florida for the remainder of Marco Rubio’s term.
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
