Democratic state Representative Angie Nixon brought her U.S. Senate campaign to the Kissimmee Events Center Tuesday night, drawing a packed crowd of 1,071 people, according to venue security. The gathering featured live music, local art displays, and a strong showing from the Puerto Rican community, underscoring the demographic’s growing political influence in Central Florida.
Local supporters voice enthusiasm
“In Florida, we are 1.3 million Puerto Ricans, and I hope that most of my people are getting behind her. We need a change. The status quo is not working for us,” said Jorge Figueroa, a Kissimmee resident, echoing the sentiment of many attendees.
Victoria Hamer‑Hodges, an Orlando resident, praised Nixon’s record, stating, “Florida needs somebody like her. She’s one of the first politicians I’ve seen in a long time that actually seems to care.” Christine Gillison, a St. Cloud resident, attended with her eight‑year‑old daughter and added, “I’m showing her that we have a voice. Angie has a voice, and at the end of the day, she matters. Her life matters.”
Nixon’s policy focus
Known for her advocacy on labor rights, voting rights, and health‑care access, Nixon delivered a fiery speech emphasizing accountability and truth‑telling. “I got into this work because people deserve leaders who show up, who tell the truth, and deliver,” she told the crowd. “It’s a fight I have been in for a decade, and that is a fight I’ll bring to the United States Senate.”
Moody’s campaign and Trump endorsement
Republican incumbent Ashley Moody, who currently holds the seat, continues to campaign across the state. On Tuesday she appeared in Pinellas County alongside Governor Ron DeSantis, urging voters to turn out at the polls. Moody highlighted her recent vote to approve temporary tax deductions for tipped wages, overtime and Social Security, framing it as a direct benefit to working families.
“When we’re talking about bringing home wins, putting money in people’s pockets, it’s important to talk about facts and who is delivering those wins, not just rhetoric,” Moody said.
Moody also enjoys the endorsement of President Donald Trump, who has publicly backed her candidacy, reinforcing her standing with the party’s base.
Poll shows tight race
A University of North Florida poll released this week shows Moody leading Nixon by four points, with 49% of respondents supporting Moody, 45% backing Nixon, and 5% undecided. While the margin is modest, the poll indicates a competitive contest as voters prepare to decide who will fill the remaining two years of Marco Rubio’s Senate seat, a vacancy created after Rubio was appointed Secretary of State by President Trump.
What’s next for voters
With the election scheduled for next week, both campaigns are intensifying outreach in key communities across Central Florida. Nixon’s team is focusing on mobilizing the Puerto Rican electorate and emphasizing her progressive labor agenda, while Moody’s campaign is highlighting tax relief measures and the backing of President Trump and Governor DeSantis.
Local voters are encouraged to review the candidates’ platforms, attend upcoming town‑hall events, and verify their polling locations ahead of the November ballot.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
