Rep. Jared Moskowitz has secured the Democratic nomination for Florida's 23rd Congressional District, holding off a progressive challenge from union organizer Oliver Larkin, according to Decision Desk HQ. The victory sets up a high-stakes general election in a district reshaped by Republican-led redistricting.
Moskowitz, seeking a third term, was projected to beat Larkin, who had the backing of the Democratic Socialists of America. The primary was the last DSA test of the cycle, following a string of wins in safely blue districts in New York, Michigan, and Colorado. Larkin's defeat comes a week after democratic socialist Francesca Hong lost her bid for Wisconsin governor, despite polling that had her leading.
The 23rd District, stretching from South Beach to Delray Beach, is rated a toss-up. Decision Desk HQ's forecast gives Democrats a narrow edge. The redrawn map, which was part of a broader reshaping of Florida's congressional boundaries, has made this seat a key battleground for November.
On the Republican side, Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer was leading in early returns, with sparse polling available before the primary. Singer is expected to be Moskowitz's opponent in the fall, setting up a competitive race in a district that both parties view as winnable.
Moskowitz, a former state emergency management director, has positioned himself as a moderate Democrat, focusing on issues like disaster preparedness and bipartisan infrastructure. His campaign emphasized his ability to work across the aisle, a message that may resonate in a swing district.
Larkin, a progressive labor organizer, ran on a platform of Medicare for All, the Green New Deal, and defunding police. He argued that Moskowitz was too conservative for the district, but ultimately failed to sway enough primary voters. The DSA's mixed results this cycle highlight the ongoing tension between the party's progressive wing and its more centrist establishment.
The general election in the 23rd District is expected to draw national attention and significant outside spending. Both parties see it as a potential pickup opportunity, and the outcome could help determine control of the House. Florida's redrawn map has created several competitive races, and this one is among the most closely watched.
As the campaign moves forward, Moskowitz will likely highlight his record and local ties, while Singer will try to tie him to national Democratic leaders. The district's demographics, which include a mix of retirees, young professionals, and diverse communities, make it a microcosm of the broader electoral landscape.
The primary results in Florida, along with those in Wyoming and Alaska, are part of a busy election night that will shape the November ballot. For now, Moskowitz can celebrate a primary win, but the real fight begins now.
