Why It Matters
Florida’s 27th Congressional District has emerged as a competitive battleground in the 2026 midterm elections. The district covers Miami, Coral Gables, and surrounding areas where voters face high housing costs and insurance rates. Three independent race forecasters have shifted their ratings toward Democrats since March.
What Happened
Democratic candidate Eliott Rodriguez announced Thursday that his campaign raised more than $500,000 in the first quarter since entering the race in March. Rodriguez, a former CBS anchor, is challenging Republican U.S. Rep. María Elvira Salazar in Florida’s 27th Congressional District.
The fundraising total exceeds what any of his current or former primary opponents raised in a comparable time period, according to the campaign. Rodriguez previously reported raising $312,000 in his first 21 days as a candidate.
By the Numbers
Rodriguez secured more than 20 endorsements from current and former local officials across Miami-Dade County. Internal polling from his campaign shows him leading the Democratic primary field with 43 percent support, a 27-point advantage over his nearest competitor.
The primary election is scheduled for August 18, with the general election on November 3.
The Field
Rodriguez faces two Democratic primary opponents: former federal prosecutor Robin Peguero and businessman Lev Parnas, a former Trump supporter. Salazar, who has held the seat since 2020, faces a Republican primary challenge from Vincent Arias.
Both Rodriguez and Salazar are Cuban American former television journalists. Salazar won the seat in 2020 by defeating Democrat Donna Shalala.
Zoom Out
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has identified the 27th District as one of four Florida seats it views as competitive in 2026. Three independent forecasters—Larry Sabato’s Crystal Ball, CQ/Roll Call, and Cook Political Report—have shifted their ratings on the race toward Democrats since Rodriguez entered in March.
The district covers Miami, Coral Gables, Cutler Bay, Key Biscayne, Pinecrest, North Bay Village, South Miami, West Miami, and unincorporated areas of Miami-Dade County.
What’s Next
Candidates have until the August 18 primary to build support and raise funds. The winner of each party’s primary will advance to the November 3 general election.