Retiring Representative Frederica Wilson’s endorsed successor has secured victory in the Democratic primary to replace her in Congress. Miami-Dade County Commissioner Oliver Gilbert is expected to take over Wilson’s seat in Florida’s 24th Congressional District, a region known for its Democratic leanings.
Situated in South Florida, this district includes parts of Miami. Recent changes to Florida’s congressional map by the Republican party relocated areas along the shore, such as Miami Beach, to a neighboring district. Wilson, serving in Congress since 2011, initially represented Florida’s 17th Congressional District before moving to the 24th due to redistricting.
Wilson is recognized for her distinctive fashion, often featuring brightly colored wide-brimmed hats worn in and out of the Capitol. As her Congressional tenure ends this year, seven Democrats competed to replace her in a primary race.
Although House Democratic leaders have not yet officially taken sides, they are anticipated to rally behind Gilbert following his primary win. Wilson strongly backed Gilbert, stating at a rally, “If I am endorsing you, everybody in District 24 should be endorsing you.”
While competitive, this primary did not feature the high-profile conflicts seen between establishment Democrats and their far-left challengers in the 2026 midterm cycle. Across the U.S., candidates aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America have gained attention by challenging and sometimes unseating incumbents.
Elsewhere in Florida, DSA member Oliver Larkin posed a challenge to moderate Representative Jared Moskowitz in a district increasingly favorable to Republicans. Elijah Manley, a self-declared socialist, is one of several opponents targeting Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz, who faced backlash for running in a majority-Black district after her district was altered by Republican-led redistricting. Wasserman Schultz emerged victorious on Tuesday night.
Elizabeth Elkind, a politics reporter for Fox News Digital, leads coverage of the House of Representatives. Her previous work includes contributions to Daily Mail and CBS News. Follow her on Twitter at @liz_elkind or send tips to [email protected].
Leave a Reply