Red, Blue, or Neither? The Changing Color of Florida Politics
Florida was a predominantly blue state for decades before shifting to a swing state. Now, more than 40 percent of the state identifies as red. However, experts caution that Florida might not be as red as it appears.
The Two-Party System in Florida
Today's main political forces in Florida are the Democrats and Republicans. The two-party system became firmly established between 1824 and 1840. Although other parties like Independents and Libertarians exist, no third-party candidate has won a state in a presidential election for over 50 years, according to the Pew Research Center.
In Florida, the last third-party victory was in 1848 when Zachary Taylor of the Whig Party was elected president.
Florida’s Political Landscape Over Time
The Sunshine State remained mostly blue for decades. Recently, some local elections have swung back toward blue, suggesting Florida’s political color is not firmly red.
Since the Civil War, the two major parties have dominated Florida politics. From 1972 to 2020, Democrats held the majority of registered voters. That changed in 2021, when Republicans took the lead and have steadily increased their lead since then.
Personal Perspective on Party Changes
“I haven't changed that much, but I feel like the party has,” said Teri H., who grew up Republican. “And, you know, the party (kind of) abandoned me.”
Teri, who asked that his last name not be used due to fear of retaliation at work, joined the military and later became chair of the College Republicans at the University of North Florida.
Author's Summary
Florida’s political identity is complex and evolving, with shifts that challenge the simple red-versus-blue narrative long associated with the state.