Florida Governor Polls 2023: A Comprehensive Overview

An overview of the latest polls and surveys conducted regarding the 2023 Florida gubernatorial election, providing insights into the current political climate and the contenders' positions.

In the Sunshine State, political tensions are rising as the 2023 gubernatorial election draws closer. With incumbent Governor Ron DeSantis seeking re-election, the race promises to be hotly contested. Various polls and surveys have been conducted to gauge the public's sentiments and predict the potential outcome. This article delves into these polls, analyzing their findings and providing a comprehensive understanding of the current political landscape in Florida.

Before delving deeply into the specific polls, it's essential to provide some background context. Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican, has been in office since 2019. He's known for his conservative stances on various issues, including immigration, abortion, and education. His Democratic challenger, Charlie Crist, previously served as Florida's governor from 2007 to 2011. He's known for his more moderate views and his focus on issues like healthcare and the environment. With these two prominent figures at the forefront, the 2023 Florida gubernatorial election is shaping up to be a closely watched race.

florida governor polls 2023

Governor DeSantis leads in most polls.

• DeSantis vs. Crist: tight race.
• Independents favor DeSantis.
• Economy top issue for voters.
• Abortion, immigration also key.
• DeSantis' approval rating high.
• Crist needs strong turnout.
• Polls may not reflect Election Day.

In summary, the 2023 Florida gubernatorial election is a closely watched race, with Governor DeSantis holding a slight advantage over Charlie Crist in most polls. However, the outcome may hinge on factors such as the economy, abortion, and immigration. Independent voters and the ability to mobilize supporters will also play a crucial role in determining the election's outcome.

DeSantis vs. Crist: tight race.

The 2023 Florida gubernatorial race between incumbent Governor Ron DeSantis and Democratic challenger Charlie Crist is shaping up to be a close one, according to recent polls.

• Neck-and-neck race: In most polls conducted in recent months, DeSantis and Crist have been running neck-and-neck, with neither candidate holding a significant lead.
• Within margin of error: In some polls, the difference between the two candidates has been within the margin of error, indicating that the race is too close to call.
• Independents hold the key: Independent voters, who make up a significant portion of the electorate in Florida, are likely to play a decisive role in the election. Recent polls suggest that these voters are currently leaning towards DeSantis, but this could change as the election nears.
• High stakes for both candidates: For DeSantis, a victory would solidify his position as a rising star in the Republican Party and could pave the way for a potential presidential run in 2024. For Crist, a win would mark a political comeback after his failed bid for governor in 2014 and his unsuccessful run for Congress in 2022.

Overall, the DeSantis vs. Crist race is one of the most closely watched gubernatorial contests in the country. The outcome could have significant implications for the future of Florida and the national political landscape.

Independents favor DeSantis.

Recent polls indicate that independent voters in Florida currently favor Governor Ron DeSantis over his Democratic challenger, Charlie Crist.

• Large bloc of voters: Independent voters make up a significant portion of the electorate in Florida, often comprising more than 20% of registered voters. Their support is crucial for candidates to win statewide elections.
• DeSantis' appeal to independents: DeSantis has taken positions on issues such as education and the economy that appeal to many independent voters. He is seen as a strong leader who is not afraid to take on the political establishment.
• Crist's challenge: Crist needs to do more to appeal to independent voters, particularly those who may be turned off by his party affiliation or his previous support for some Democratic policies.
• Potential swing voters: Independent voters are often seen as swing voters, meaning they are open to voting for candidates from either party. Their support can be swayed by factors such as the candidates' positions on key issues, their leadership qualities, and their ability to connect with voters.

Overall, DeSantis' current lead among independent voters is a positive sign for his re-election campaign. However, Crist still has time to win over these voters by focusing on issues that are important to them and by demonstrating his leadership qualities.

Economy top issue for voters.

The economy is consistently ranked as the top issue for voters in the 2023 Florida gubernatorial election, according to various polls and surveys.

Rising cost of living: Many Floridians are struggling with the rising cost of living, including increasing housing costs, food prices, and gas prices. Both DeSantis and Crist have proposed policies aimed at addressing these concerns, such as tax cuts and initiatives to make housing more affordable.

Inflation and wages: Inflation has been a major issue across the country, and Florida is no exception. Voters are concerned about how inflation is impacting their purchasing power and their ability to make ends meet. They are looking for candidates who have plans to address inflation and help workers keep up with rising costs.

Jobs and unemployment: The state's unemployment rate has remained low, but some voters are concerned about the availability of good-paying jobs and the impact of automation on the workforce. Candidates' positions on job creation and economic development will be closely scrutinized by voters.

Diversifying the economy: Florida's economy is heavily reliant on tourism and real estate. Voters may be looking for candidates who have plans to diversify the economy and create new opportunities for businesses and workers.

Overall, the economy is a top concern for Florida voters in the 2023 gubernatorial election. Candidates' positions on issues such as the rising cost of living, inflation, jobs, and economic development will be key factors in determining the outcome of the race.

Abortion, immigration also key.

In addition to the economy, abortion and immigration are also key issues for voters in the 2023 Florida gubernatorial election.

• Abortion: Abortion is a highly divisive issue in Florida, with strong opinions on both sides of the debate. Governor DeSantis is a staunch opponent of abortion and has signed into law several restrictions on the procedure, including a 15-week ban. Charlie Crist, on the other hand, supports abortion rights and has pledged to veto any further restrictions. The outcome of the election could have a significant impact on the future of abortion access in Florida.
• Immigration: Immigration is another hot-button issue in Florida, a state with a large and diverse immigrant population. DeSantis has taken a hard line on immigration, supporting policies such as increased border security and the deportation of undocumented immigrants. Crist, on the other hand, has a more moderate stance on immigration and supports a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who meet certain criteria.

Both abortion and immigration are complex issues with strong opinions on both sides. The candidates' positions on these issues will likely play a significant role in determining the outcome of the election.

DeSantis' approval rating high.

Governor DeSantis enjoys relatively high approval ratings among Florida voters, which is a positive sign for his re-election campaign.

• Strong leadership during crises: DeSantis has received praise for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and Hurricane Ian. His decisive actions and willingness to take unpopular stances have resonated with many voters.
• Conservative policies: DeSantis' conservative policies, such as his opposition to mask mandates and vaccine requirements, are popular with many Florida voters, particularly those who identify as Republican or Independent.
• Economic policies: DeSantis has also taken steps to boost the state's economy, such as cutting taxes and regulations. These policies have helped to create jobs and attract new businesses to Florida.
• National profile: DeSantis has gained a national profile as a potential future presidential candidate. This has helped to raise his visibility and popularity among Florida voters.

Overall, DeSantis' high approval rating is a significant advantage in his re-election bid. However, it is important to note that approval ratings can change over time, particularly in the context of a competitive election.

Crist needs strong turnout.

In order to defeat Governor DeSantis in the 2023 election, Charlie Crist will need to mobilize his base and encourage strong voter turnout, particularly among Democratic and independent voters.

Democratic base: Crist will need to ensure that Democratic voters are motivated to turn out and vote for him. This means energizing the party's base by focusing on issues that are important to them, such as healthcare, education, and the environment.

Independent voters: Crist will also need to appeal to independent voters, who make up a significant portion of the electorate in Florida. He will need to convince these voters that he is the best candidate to lead the state, regardless of party affiliation.

Early voting and mail-in ballots: Crist will need to encourage his supporters to take advantage of early voting and mail-in ballots. This will help to increase voter turnout and make it easier for people to cast their ballots.

Get-out-the-vote efforts: Crist's campaign will need to organize effective get-out-the-vote efforts on Election Day. This means having volunteers at polling places to help voters and providing transportation to those who need it.

Overall, Crist needs to run a strong and effective campaign that motivates his base, appeals to independent voters, and encourages strong voter turnout. If he is able to do this, he has a chance of defeating Governor DeSantis in the 2023 election.

Polls may not reflect Election Day.

It is important to note that polls are just a snapshot of public opinion at a given moment in time. They can be influenced by a variety of factors, including the timing of the poll, the methodology used, and the wording of the questions.

• Polls can be wrong: Polls have been wrong in the past, sometimes dramatically. For example, in the 2016 presidential election, many polls showed Hillary Clinton with a significant lead over Donald Trump. However, Trump ultimately won the election.
• Polls can change: Public opinion can change quickly, especially in the context of a competitive election. A candidate who is trailing in the polls can gain ground if they are able to effectively communicate their message and mobilize their supporters.
• Polls may not account for all voters: Polls may not accurately reflect the views of all voters, particularly those who are less likely to participate in polls. For example, polls may underrepresent the views of minority voters, young voters, and low-income voters.
• Polls may not predict turnout: Polls may not accurately predict voter turnout, which can have a significant impact on the outcome of an election. For example, a candidate who is able to mobilize their base and encourage strong voter turnout may be able to win an election, even if they are trailing in the polls.

Overall, it is important to be cautious about relying too heavily on polls, especially in the context of a competitive election. Polls can be wrong, they can change, and they may not accurately reflect the views of all voters or predict voter turnout. As Election Day approaches, it is important to pay attention to the latest polls and analysis, but also to be aware of their limitations.

FAQ

In this section, we'll delve into some frequently asked questions specific to the Florida election:

We hope this FAQ has been helpful in answering some of your questions about the Florida election. For more information, please visit the Florida Division of Elections website.

In addition to the FAQ, here are some tips for staying informed and engaged in the Florida election:

Tips

Here are some practical tips for staying informed and engaged in the Florida election:

By following these tips, you can make sure that your voice is heard in the Florida election.

We hope this article has provided you with valuable information and insights into the 2023 Florida gubernatorial election. Remember to stay informed, get involved, and make your voice heard on Election Day.

Conclusion

The 2023 Florida gubernatorial election is shaping up to be a closely watched race, with incumbent Governor Ron DeSantis facing a challenge from former Governor Charlie Crist. While DeSantis currently holds a lead in the polls, Crist is hoping to mobilize his base and appeal to independent voters in order to pull off an upset.

The outcome of the election could have significant implications for the future of Florida and the national political landscape. DeSantis is a rising star in the Republican Party and a potential contender for the presidency in 2024. A victory for Crist would mark a political comeback and could potentially shift the balance of power in Florida's state government.

Regardless of who wins the election, it is clear that the voters of Florida have a lot at stake. The next governor will make decisions that will impact the state's economy, education system, healthcare system, and environment. It is important for voters to stay informed about the candidates and the issues, and to make their voices heard on Election Day.

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the 2023 Florida gubernatorial election. As Election Day approaches, we encourage you to continue to follow the race and to make your own informed decision about who you believe is the best candidate to lead Florida into the future.