Red, blue, or neither? The changing color of Florida politics

Red, Blue, or Neither? The Changing Color of Florida Politics

Florida was a predominantly blue state for decades before becoming a swing state. Today, it is over 40 percent red, but experts suggest it may not be as red as it appears.

Two-Party Dominance in the U.S.

The Democratic and Republican parties have been the main forces in American politics since the two-party system solidified between 1824 and 1840. Although other parties like Independents and Libertarians exist, no third-party candidate has won a state in a presidential election for more than 50 years, according to the Pew Research Center.

The last time a third-party candidate won a state in Florida was in 1848, when Zachary Taylor of the Whig Party became president.

Florida's Political Shifts

Florida, often called the Sunshine State, was mainly blue for many years. Despite recent local elections flipping blue, the state's politics have been dominated by the two major parties since the Civil War. From 1972 to 2020, Democrats held the majority of registered voters. In 2021, Republicans surpassed them and have steadily widened their lead.

Personal Perspectives on Party Changes

Teri H., who grew up Republican, feels the party has moved away from him. After military service, he attended the University of North Florida and led its College Republicans.

"I haven't changed that much, but I feel like the party has. And, you know, the party (kind of) abandoned me," he said.

Teri requested that his last name not be used to avoid retaliation at work.

Author's summary: Florida's political landscape has evolved with shifts between blue and red dominance, reflecting both statewide trends and individual experiences within parties.

WLRN — 2025-11-07