ORLANDO — Hundreds of Democrats from across Florida gathered in Orlando this weekend for the Florida Democratic Party’s largest fundraiser of the year, as party leaders and candidates worked to energize supporters ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
The annual event, themed “Comeback,” reflects Democrats’ hopes of reclaiming ground in a state that has shifted increasingly Republican in recent election cycles. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg was among the featured speakers scheduled to address attendees.
As Democrats look to build momentum, many candidates are centering their message on affordability and Florida’s rising cost of living.
“We can’t afford to live in this state anymore. The price of housing has gone through the roof,” said state Sen. Brian Nathan.
Nathan pointed to his victory in a Hillsborough County special election earlier this year, where he flipped a district won by President Donald Trump.
“When you’re knocking on someone’s door, in the last 10 years, has your life gotten better. If the answer’s no, it’s time for someone new,” Nathan said.
The Orlando gathering brought together Democratic candidates from across the state to meet with donors and volunteers and encourage voter turnout ahead of next year’s elections.
Historically, the president’s party often loses congressional seats in midterm elections, and Florida Democrats hope that trend will work in their favor. But the party continues to face significant challenges, including a Republican voter registration advantage of about 1.5 million voters and congressional and legislative district maps that favor Republicans.
David Jolly, a top Democratic candidate for governor and former Republican congressman, said Democrats can appeal to voters across the political spectrum.
State Rep. Dotie Joseph, another Democratic candidate for governor, said the party should remain committed to its core values while working with others when possible.
“I’m somebody who’s not afraid to work across the aisle, but also not afraid to fight. There are times when we need to stand up and make sure our rights are protected,” Joseph said.
The fundraiser comes just weeks after the Florida Republican Party held its annual Sunshine Summit, one of the party’s marquee political events.
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