Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Robert People Win Florida Democratic Primaries

U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz won the Democratic primary for Florida's 20th Congressional District on August 19, 2026, securing approximately 50.5% of the vote. She defeated four opponents, including former Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, after Republican-led redistricting by Governor Ron DeSantis made her previous seat more competitive. The victory drew criticism from some Black Democrats who viewed her as an outsider entering a historically Black-represented district.

Wasserman Schultz will face Republican nominee Brent Andersen and independent candidate Kedner Maxime in the general election. Andersen has criticized her as a career politician who does not live in the district she seeks to represent.

In a separate race, retired Army veteran Robert People won the Democratic primary for Florida's redrawn 15th Congressional District with 53.6% of the vote. People's victory was bolstered by strong performance in Hillsborough County, though he lost in Citrus and Hernando counties. He will challenge Republican incumbent Laurel Lee in November.

People is campaigning on a platform that includes Medicare for All, the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the impeachment and removal of the Donald Trump administration. He also proposes establishing congressional offices in every county within the district to manage its vast geography.