Florida
Florida will vote on marijuana, abortion in an election that will test GOP's dominance
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Florida’s election will test whether the state maintains its new reputation as a Republican stronghold, or whether Democrats make some gains by tapping into the support for abortion and marijuana ballot questions and the new energy Vice President Kamala Harris brings to the race.
Gone are the days when Florida was looked at as the biggest prize among swing states. After former President Barack Obama won Florida twice, former President Donald Trump carried the state by a whisker in 2016 and then by a much larger share in 2020. In 2022, Republicans took all five statewide seats on the ballot by landslide margins.
Still, there is a lot of buzz over constitutional amendments that could protect abortion rights and legalize recreational marijuana, with both sides of each issue pumping millions of dollars into advertising. Democrats support the ballot measures and hope they boost turnout to give them at least a chance stopping Trump’s third straight Florida victory and keeping U.S. Sen. Rick Scott from winning a second term.
The only statewide office on the ballot is Scott’s Senate seat. Scott is being challenged by former Democratic U.S. Rep. Debbie Murcarsel-Powell in a race that’s been overshadowed by the presidential election and the abortion and marijuana ballot questions.
Even if Trump and Scott are victorious in Florida, Democratic Party Chairwoman Nikki Fried said the election will be a huge success if the amendments pass and the party flips enough legislative seats to take away the Republicans’ supermajority.
“Look where we were in of November 2022. We had the largest loss that Florida Democrats have ever experienced,” Fried said. “Nobody anticipated that we would even have this conversation today, that the polls are showing that we are tight, that there was even a possibility that Florida would be in play. Everybody counted us out.”
Still, it’s an uphill climb. The amendments need support from at least 60% of voters, and there’s enough money being spent against them that it could create doubts among voters who normally support the issues, said Florida-based Republican political strategist Jamie Miller.
“As a general rule, amendments pass if there’s no real effort against them and they fail when there are real efforts against them,” Miller said.
Miller also believes Democrats are motivated to vote against the Republicans they don’t like rather than be inspired by their own candidates.
“I see excitement against Donald Trump and against Rick Scott, but that as a general rule in the state the size of Florida is not enough to get you across the line,” he said.
Scott served two terms as governor, winning each with less than 50% of the vote. In 2018, he defeated incumbent Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson in a race decided by 0.2 percentage points. But Florida politics changed. The last time Scott was on the ballot, Democrats outnumbered Republicans in the state. Republicans now have a million-voter advantage.
Scott, one of the richest members of Congress, pumped millions of dollars of his own money into the race, as he has with his previous three elections. Far outspent, and with little money coming in from national Democrats until the last few weeks of the race, Murcarsel-Powell struggled to gain attention.
While Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis wasn’t on the ballot, he spent time campaigning against the abortion rights and marijuana amendments. DeSantis even used state agencies to fight the amendment, with the Agency for Health Care Administration set up a website and aired TV ads providing information on abortion and the Department of Health tried to stop television stations from airing a pro-amendment ad.
The abortion amendment would protect the rights of women to have an abortion up to the point the fetus can survive outside the womb. Florida now bans abortion six weeks after conception, when many women don’t realize they are pregnant.
Voters overwhelming approved medical marijuana in 2016. This year they’re being asked to legalize recreational marijuana. The marijuana industry has spent tens of millions of dollars on the campaign, while DeSantis has raised money against it and criticized it often during official events.
Very few, if any, of Florida’s 28 congressional seats are competitive, but the state will elect at least one new member to Congress. Former Senate President Mike Haridopolos is favored to replace retiring Republican Rep. Bill Posey. He’s being challenged by Democrat Sandy Kennedy in a strong Republican district.
Republicans will maintain firm control of the Legislature. Democrats will consider it a major victory if they flip enough seats to remove the supermajority GOP hold in the House and Senate.
One of the legislative seats being heavily targeted is held by Republican Sen. Corey Simon, a former Florida State and NFL football star who is being challenged by nationally known civil rights lawyer Daryl Parks, who is the former partner of civil rights lawyer Ben Crump.
Set on the gentle waters of Boca Ciega Bay, the small town of Gulfport delivers a mix of Old Florida charm and bayside leisure. Once a humble fishing village, Gulfport has managed to stay delightfully unpolished even as the larger Tampa Bay metro area expands around it. Take a slow walk along the waterfront pier between Shore Boulevard and Beach Boulevard for sunset views — if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of dolphins cutting through the shallows. From the Municipal Marina, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the mangrove-fringed estuary of Clam Bayou Nature Preserve where herons and osprey stir in the salt air.
The Gulfport Beach Park draws a mellow crowd to its calm shores and is still just steps from art galleries, museums, and restaurants. The compact town layout means you can park once and spend the day exploring on foot. Getting to Gulfport is easy, with Tampa International Airport (TPA) and St. Petersburg-Clearwater International (PIE) both within a 30-minute drive. Once you arrive, the pace slows to match the tide. To extend your visit in the area, consider continuing on to Safety Harbor, known as the “Jewel of Tampa Bay.”
Art, color, and a touch of quirkiness
If Gulfport has a pulse, it beats strongest along Beach Boulevard, where galleries, vintage shops, and sidewalk cafés radiate local color. The town’s long-standing embrace of the offbeat has made it a haven for artists, writers, and makers who prefer brushstrokes over big-box stores. On the first Friday and third Saturday of every month, the Art Walk transforms the streets into an open-air gallery. Musicians play, artists paint live in The Village Courtyard, and the scent of fresh seafood drifts from waterfront restaurants. Between events, galleries showcase everything from blown glass and hand-stitched textiles to vivid paintings of Gulfport’s own oak-lined streets.
For overnight stays, opt for character over corporate. The Peninsula Inn & Spa, housed in a lovingly restored 1905 building, anchors the town’s lodging scene. You’ll also find cozy cottages and boutique inns that mirror Gulfport’s creative, walkable spirit. Dining is as eclectic as the décor. Expect Venezuelan comfort food, dockside seafood, and small wine bars tucked beneath the oaks. The vibe is unhurried and communal. This is a town for browsing, chatting, and lingering over a second cup of coffee. If you’re looking for more artsy Florida communities to explore, check out mural-filled DeLand, known as the “Athens of Florida.”
The story of Gulfport
Long before it became a bohemian hideaway, Gulfport began as Barnett’s Bluff, settled in 1868 by James and Rebecca Barnett. Over time it cycled through a few identities — Disston City, Bonifacio, Veteran City — before officially becoming Gulfport in 1910. Its enduring symbol, the Gulfport Casino, has been the town’s social anchor for more than a century. The current 1930s-era building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, still hosts dances and community events overlooking the bay.
That independent streak still defines the town. Gulfport’s dining scene skips national chains in favor of small, personality-driven spots. The Pink Winehouse, known for its wines, barbeque, and chill vibes, is a local favorite. Most guesthouses and short-term rentals sit within walking distance of shops, the marina, and the bayfront park, making it easy to experience the town without a car.
Parking is free and plentiful, and the Gulfport Historical Society offers walking tours that uncover the stories behind the cottages, piers, and historic homes. Together, they reveal a town that’s grown with grace: colorful, creative, and confident in its quirks. If you have time during your trip to Gulfport, make the journey to some of these other spectacular beaches around Tampa Bay.
Florida State has made the decision to keep Mike Norvell as head coach going into the 2026 season.
Since releasing a statement which promised a “comprehensive assessment’ at the end of the year, the Seminoles have gone 2-2, with both of those losses coming by double-digits on the road.
READ MORE: Mike Norvell returning as FSU football’s head coach in 2026
Norvell is 38-33 overall and 22-26 against ACC opponents at Florida State. So, why do the powers at be plan to retain him for a seventh year on the job?
Fsu President Mccullough001 / Alicia Devine/Tallahassee Democrat / USA TODAY NETWORK
Shortly after news broke that Norvell would be sticking around in Tallahassee, Florida State released a statement from multiple decision-makers; university president Richard McCullough, athletic director Michael Alford, and BOT chairman Peter Collins.
With support from leadership, Norvell has pledged to make fundamental changes in ‘specific areas’ to help meet Florida State’s standard.
“FSU Board of Trustees Chairman Peter Collins, Vice President and Director of Athletics Michael Alford, and I are in complete agreement that changes are needed for our program to improve,” McCullough said. “Coach Norvell embraces our support in that process and agrees that success must be achieved.
“He continues to demonstrate an unwavering belief in this program’s future, and so do we,” McCullough continued. “This decision reflects a unified commitment to competing in the rapidly evolving landscape of college football, while maintaining continuity within the program.”
Alford cited Florida State’s massive financial investment in the football program. The Seminoles would owe Norvell around $54 million if he’s fired after December 31.
“Our responsibility is to do what gives Florida State the strongest competitive position – not just today, but for years to come,” Alford said. “Florida State has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in its football program over the past few years with high expectations.
“Chairman Collins, President McCullough, and I are aligned in partnering with Coach and improving our ability to compete for championships,” Alford added. “Our mission is unwavering in putting Florida State football at the forefront of college athletics.”
Collins believes Florida State needs to address other deficiencies within the program.
“In addition to addressing the reality that on-field results have been far from acceptable to the FSU standard, we also realize our responsibilities as stewards of program revenues and how to best allocate those dollars to compete at an elite level – something we will not compromise,” Collins said.
“Throughout the assessment, one goal will remain beyond all others – achieving sustained championship-level success. We will address performance deficiencies in the program,” Collins added. “These deficiencies may include structural changes to the very large and complex program FSU football has become, and these areas are where we will focus and invest.”
In the release, Norvell shared his love for Florida State.
“This program has been built on belief, sacrifice, and putting the team first,” Norvell said. “That set of values has always guided my actions, and those of our players. The driving motivation behind this is to make certain that we are doing everything properly to obtain and retain elite players, add critical pieces, and sustain long-term success.”
“I love Florida State, and I am fully committed to this program, and our shared goals.”
READ MORE: FSU football’s bizarre special teams chaos defies explanation: ‘once in a lifetime’
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GAINESVILLE, FL – The No. 20 Tennessee Volunteers head to Florida to take on the Gators in a primetime SEC matchup today, Saturday, Nov. 22. Kickoff is slated for 7:30 p.m. Eastern on ABC.
If you’ve cut ties with your cable provider, there are still ways you can tune in. Several streaming services will broadcast the game live and you can watch on Fubo (free trial), DIRECTV (free trial), Sling (promotional offers as low as $4.99) and the ESPN streaming app.
The SEC is packed with teams that are filled with dogs that look to do nothing but win. Tennessee has been part of that club this season; among the teams in the AP Top 25, they hold the lowest rank in the conference at No. 20.
On the other side of the field is a Florida squad with a losing record, but they get to play the role of spoiler.
A look at Tennessee
The Volunteers offense has been on fire this season. The squad ranks second in points per game (43.4), second in total yards per game (495.0), and third in passing yards per game (318.3).
They score at a rate that makes the rest of their conference look silly, as far as how they prepare to get the ball into the endzone.
It was further shown in their recent 42-9 blowout win over New Mexico State. In a game where they were bouncing off the loss to Oklahoma, the defense was sturdy and held the Aggies run game to 27 yards on the day, while quarterback Joey Aguilar completed 73.9% of his passes for 204 yards, one score and two interceptions.
Now they get to prepare for a Florida squad who’s earned all three of their wins on home turf.
Within the rivalry, the last time they won consecutive games was the 2003 and 2004 season.
Tennessee players to watch
Joey Aguilar
One of the best quarterbacks in college football, Aguilar ranks eighth in passing yards (2,941) and ties for ninth in passing touchdowns (22) within all of college football.
Continuing his play at this rate could help the Volunteers creep into the College Football Playoff.
DeSean Bishop
Bishop has been a sturdy back that’s kept the run game afloat, ranking sixth in yards (770) and fourth in touchdowns within the SEC.
Watch No. 20 Tennessee vs. Florida for free on FuboTV
A look at Florida
A 3-7 record isn’t enough to make the College Football Playoff, and with only two games remaining on the schedule, Florida can say goodbye to meeting the six-win requirement to make a bowl game.
However, the Gators can spoil the seasons of their peers, especially the Volunteers. Doing so would end a three-game skid for the Florida squad.
The Gators offense ranks 12th in passing yards (217.1) and 15th in points (20.8) within the conference. The defense ties for 12th in points allowed (23.6) and ranks 12th in rushing yards allowed (143.2) in the conference.
Florida players to watch
DJ Lagway
The sophomore quarterback could be better, with a 12 touchdowns-13 interceptions ratio to his name.
Jadan Baugh
Baugh has been solid with 808 rushing yards and six touchdowns.
Watch No. 20 Tennessee vs. Florida for free on DIRECTV
Who is announcing Tennessee vs. Florida?
With this primetime matchup being broadcasted on ABC, it will be announced by Chris Fowler (play-by-play), Kirk Herbstreit (analyst) and Holly Rowe (sideline reporter).
What are the latest odds for Tennessee vs. Florida?
Note: These odds are as of Friday afternoon.
Spread: TENN (-4, -112) | FL (+4, -108)
Moneyline: TENN (-205) | FL (+170)
Odds courtesy of DraftKings
Check out more information on how to watch the No. 20 Tennessee vs. Florida game today on TV and streaming services:
What: No. 20 Tennessee vs. Florida college football
When: Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. Eastern
Where: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium | Gainesville, Fla.
Channel: ABC
Best streaming options: Fubo (free trial), DIRECTV (free trial), Sling (promotional offers as low as $4.99), ESPN streaming
About Fubo
Fubo, which offers a free trial, has three main packages: Pro costs $79.99/month; Elite is $89.99; Premier is priced at $99.99. Cancel before the free trial ends to avoid being charged. Fubo includes access to more than 185 sports, entertainment and news channels. You can record games, TV shows, movies and more.
About DIRECTV
DIRECTV, which also gives customers a free trial, offers four packages if you continue with the service after your trial ends: Entertainment for $69.99; Choice for $84.99; Ultimate for $109.99; and premier for $159.99. Choice offers the most channels for sports enthusiasts.
About Sling
Sling TV users can get a Day Pass for $4.99; Weekend Pass for $9.99; Week Pass for $14.99; Monthly Pass for $45.99 (and get half off your first month); and Season Pass for $199.99 for 5 months, then $45.99 per month thereafter. You can also subscribe to either the Blue package or the Orange package depending on your viewing preferences. Sling Blue allows up to three streams at a time and Sling Orange allows one stream at a time.
About ESPN
ESPN now offers an Unlimited Plan for $29.99 per month (or $299.99 for entire year) and a Select Plan for $11.99 per month (or $119.99 for entire year), which replicates its previous coverage of select games and broadcasts on ESPN Plus.
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