Republican Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar has declared victory in Florida's 27th district elections, even as the vote count continues to show a razor-thin margin against Cuban-American Democrat Eliott Rodríguez. Election projection experts have yet to announce a definitive winner.
"Tonight, the voters of Florida's 27th District have spoken! I am deeply honored and grateful to have received your trust once again," Salazar expressed in a post on her X account.
She added, "We have won because we believe in something much greater than politics: the American Dream, the freedoms that make this nation great, and a better future for our families."
Salazar also promised ongoing dedication to her constituents, noting that representing them in Congress has been "the greatest honor" of her life. "And there's still much more to do!" she concluded.
Current Election Results
According to the latest tally from Decision Desk HQ (DDHQ), updated at 11:20 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3, Salazar leads with 123,838 votes (50.27%) compared to Rodríguez's 122,513 votes (49.73%), with a difference of just 1,325 votes and over 95% of the estimated vote reported.
Despite Salazar's slim lead, DDHQ has not declared an official winner, nor has the Associated Press confirmed a projected victory. Meanwhile, Rodríguez's campaign has urged caution given the close results.
"This is an extraordinarily tight election, and no definitive outcome should be announced until results are clear," stated his strategist Fernand Amandi, as reported by public media outlet WLRN.
The race features two well-known former television anchors of Cuban descent, garnering significant attention in Miami. Salazar, who has held her seat since January 2021, is seeking a fourth term in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The close margin keeps the race under scrutiny, with outlets like the Miami Herald suggesting the possibility of a recount, although no official confirmation of such a process has been made yet.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Florida 27th District Election
Who is leading in the Florida 27th district elections?
As of the latest count, Maria Elvira Salazar is leading with a slight margin over Eliott Rodríguez.
Has a winner been officially declared in the race?
No official winner has been declared yet, as the vote count remains extremely close and experts have not projected a victory.
What could happen if the margin remains tight?
If the margin remains tight, there could be a recount, though no official confirmation has been made regarding this possibility.