- There are several Republicans running to face off against Bill Nelson for U.S. Senate – most notably Connie Mack and George LeMieux. While I will of course vote for Nelson in the general election in November, I want to influence who the Republican candidate will be.
- There are several Republicans running for the House of Representatives seat currently held by Connie Mack. Since this seat has traditionally been held by a Republican, I want to have input in the choice.
- Tom Henning, who serves as Collier County’s Commissioner for District 3 where I live, has one challenger so far. Since the Republican candidate will no doubt win that primary, I want to have a vote in who that will be.
- The same is true for incumbent State Representative Matt Hudson’s District 80 seat in the Florida Legislature.
Any Florida voter wishing to vote in the Republican primary on August 14 must be registered as a Republican by July 16. To change your party affiliation, complete a new voter registration form by clicking here.
As to when I’ll change back — I’m not sure I will. As long as the Republican party dominates in my community, I will want to have input into the candidates it chooses to run against its Democratic opponent. Since I am free to vote for whomever I want in the general election – regardless of which party I’m registered in – I may just decide it’s easier to stay registered as a Republican than to change my voter registration back and forth before and after each election.