The past few weeks have been very important for our country and state. Tuesday, November 6 was voting day for our midterm elections, and Florida residents voted for a new governor and a US senate position. Many amendments were on the ballot, as well.
With Rick Scott’s term over, our two primary candidates for a new governor were Democrat Andrew Gillum and Republican Ron DeSantis. Election night results put DeSantis on top, but the race was so close that it went to a recount. For the US Senate race, the main candidates were Republican Rick Scott and the incumbent, Democrat Bill Nelson. This race was also extremely close, with Rick Scott winning the initial count. But, with Nelson’s refusal to concede, it too went to a recount. In the end, after the recounts were settled, DeSantis was named governor with a margin of less than 33,000 votes out of 8 million cast, and Scott is headed to the Senate, with a margin of just over 10,000 votes! In true Florida fashion, even our race for agriculture commissioner went to a recount.
One of the most talked about constitutional amendments on the ballot was Amendment 3, which allows voters to control the right to authorize expansions of casino gambling. This amendment received a lot of attention and voters took notice by passing it. Amendment 4 was passed, allowing non-violent felons the right to vote after they have served their time. Amendment 13 was also passed, which will end dog racing in Florida starting in 2020. Proponents say this will help end cruelty towards racing greyhounds.
Even though most of us students cannot vote yet, it is good to stay informed on political issues in our world. We encourage everyone to stay informed on all politics in our state and country. When we're 18, let's be sure to head to the polls ourselves. In today's day of tiny margins and recounts, it's clear that every vote matters! Let's all continue to pray for our country as new leaders come into power.
