Senator Ashley Moody, a Republican representing Florida, successfully secured her party's nomination in Tuesday's primary election. This victory marks a significant step in her campaign to complete the remaining two years of the six-year Senate term previously held by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Moody's Background and Primary Victory
Moody, who previously served two terms as Florida's attorney general, was appointed to the Senate seat by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis in January 2025. Her appointment followed Senator Rubio's resignation to join former President Donald Trump's administration, and she was sworn into office days later.
Entering the primary contest as the clear frontrunner, Senator Moody faced three Republican challengers: Chris Gleason, Neelam Taneja Perry, and Ernest "Ernie" Rivera. Her decisive win underscores her strong standing within the state's Republican Party.
Presidential Endorsement and Campaign Support
Former President Donald Trump publicly endorsed Senator Moody ahead of the special election, commending her performance. In a social media statement last month, Trump highlighted her work and her deep roots in Florida.
Senator Ashley Moody is doing a tremendous job representing the incredible people of Florida, a State I love, and WON BIG, in 2016, 2020, and 2024!
A fifth generation Floridian, Ashley served as State Attorney General for six years prior to becoming a very distinguished and well respected U.S. Senator. Ashley is working tirelessly to Grow our Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Champion American Energy DOMINANCE, Help Secure our already Secure Southern Border, Stop Migrant Crime, Murderers, and other Criminals from illegally entering our Country, Strengthen our Great Military/Veterans, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment.
Beyond the presidential backing, Moody garnered extensive support from a wide array of Florida Republicans, including Senator Rick Scott and several members of the state's congressional delegation.
Financially, Moody entered the primary with a substantial advantage. Campaign finance records show her reporting over $10.8 million in contributions and approximately $8.4 million cash on hand as of June 30, according to Federal Election Commission filings.
General Election Outlook
With her primary win, Senator Moody is now set to face Democratic nominee Angie Nixon in the November general election. Nixon also secured her party's nomination in Tuesday's primary.
This special election will determine who will serve the remainder of the term, which concludes in January 2029. Historically, Democrats have not been victorious in a U.S. Senate election in Florida since 2012, highlighting the challenging landscape for the opposing party in the upcoming contest.