An in-depth analysis of the Primary Election featuring highlights and key findings.

Findings

• Substantially more Republicans than Democrats voted in both Sarasota and Manatee counties, showing more enthusiasm during the primary for GOP races and candidates
• Young people, who register with a more Democratic edge, continue to underperform in non-general elections
• The gap between white and minority voters, particularly in Manatee, remains very high. Black Democrats outnumber black Republicans in Manatee roughly 25 to 1.
• Candidates like Steube and Gruters won close races by running up margins in their best turf while keeping the rest of the district close.
• While much has been made of Steube’s win showing a more rightward tilt in the Sarasota GOP, the general electorate still appears more moderate. Zucker beat a conservative opponent by appealing to moderates and liberals.
• Noone dominated in the Manatee School Board 1 race, but the race in School Board 3 will be tough for a challenger Servia unless she can draw voters away from incumbent Miner.
• Voters tilt further right than the total pool of registered voters. The most reliable voting blocs in the region remain loyal to the GOP.