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November 20, 2020Official election returns for the November 3 general election were certified on the morning of Tuesday, November 17 by the Florida Elections Canvassing Commission. More than 11 million Floridians cast ballots, reaching a final voter turnout of 77%.
Election results for federal, state, multi-county offices, and constitutional amendments can be found on the website of the Florida Division of Elections. Learn more about many of those who were elected to office by viewing their responses to the FCCB's candidate questionnaire.
In the Florida Senate, Republicans picked-up one seat, increasing their majority to 24-16. A final recount in District 37 gave Republican Ileana Garcia a 32-vote advantage over Democrat incumbent Jose Javier Rodriguez.
In the Florida House, the Republican majority grew to 78, just below the super-majority mark in the 120-member chamber. Three Democratic members lost their seats to Republican challengers. Republicans also picked-up two seats vacated by Democrats who unsuccessfully ran for higher office. All incumbent Republicans in the House running for re-election held their seats.
Legislature Holds Organization Session
Also on Tuesday, November 17, most Florida House and Senate members were present at the Capitol in Tallahassee for an organization session. Nine lawmakers were excused from attending because they tested positive for COVID-19 or were exposed to the coronavirus in recent days. Newly-elected state lawmakers were sworn in and new leaders were selected by their peers during the largely ceremonial meeting.
Senator Wilton Simpson, R-Trilby, was elected Senate president. Representative Chris Sprowls, R-Palm Harbor, was elected House speaker. Both lawmakers will lead their respective chambers during the 2021 and 2022 legislative sessions.
Additionally, Senator Gary Farmer, D-Fort Lauderdale, and Representative Bobby DuBose, D-Fort Lauderdale, will serve as minority leaders in the Senate and House for the next two years.
