SUMMARY: U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., secured a second term with a significant 1.38 million vote margin, receiving 55.73% of the 10.54 million ballots cast, against former U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, who garnered 42.65%. Scott’s victory contrasts with his narrow win in 2018, where he received only 50.1%. He achieved success in various counties, including Miami-Dade and even in traditionally Democratic areas like Palm Beach. Scott celebrated his win on social media, expressing gratitude and pledging to work on improving Washington. His performance mirrored President Trump‘s strong showing in the same election cycle.

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SUMMARY: Florida voters rejected two key ballot initiatives supported by Gov. Ron DeSantis: Amendment 3, which proposed a recreational cannabis program, and Amendment 4, aimed at enshrining abortion rights in the state constitution. Amendment 3 received 55.75% approval and Amendment 4 garnered 57.02%, but both failed to meet the 60% threshold required for passage. Notably, former NFL coach Tony Dungy praised the outcomes, emphasizing the protection of unborn lives. Out of the six amendments on the ballot, only two passed: Amendment 5, modifying homestead exemptions, and Amendment 2, establishing a right to fish and hunt.

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SUMMARY: In response to the devastation caused by hurricanes Helen and Milton, Florida’s state officials extended early voting in Pinellas County to accommodate residents who lost homes and vehicles. Local leaders emphasized the importance of voting as a civic duty, especially during recovery efforts. Voter turnout in Pinellas County has been high, with over 366,000 ballots cast so far. Statewide, more than 8.2 million people have voted early or by mail. Elections Supervisor Julie Marcus highlighted that voting serves as a step towards healing for many, emphasizing the various opportunities available for residents to exercise their right to vote.

Early voter turnout is strong in the Tampa Bay area ahead of Election Day, but how does it compare to 2020?

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