US socialists score shock Florida win as Trump’s picks stumble

The Democratic Party's left wing celebrated a surprising win in Florida's US Senate primary on Wednesday, as its candidate Angie Nixon defeated favored Republican Alexander Vindman. Nixon, affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America, triumphed despite a significant fundraising gap against the former national security official, who gained prominence through his testimony during Trump's first impeachment.

Nixon, emphasizing her "people-centred" politics, told NBC News, "We can argue all day about people's labels, but at the end of the day, I care about the needs of people." The Democratic left's victory extended its insurgent streak into Trump's home state, following a narrow loss in Wisconsin's gubernatorial primary. However, the win could complicate Florida's already challenging Senate race for Democrats, as the state has become increasingly Republican.

Vindman promptly endorsed Nixon, and some strategists suggested his defeat benefited mainstream Democrats, who could now avoid pouring significant resources into a race they were unlikely to win. Elsewhere in Florida, mainstream Democrats secured victories with Congressman Jared Moskowitz winning a newly redrawn district and Debbie Wasserman Schultz surviving a crowded primary.

These successes balanced Nixon's triumph, highlighting the diverse views among Democratic voters as the party debates its strategy for regaining power. Republicans also faced setbacks, with Trump-endorsed congressman Cory Mills losing his primary due to allegations of campaign finance violations and sexual misconduct. Another endorsed candidate lost a Republican primary for a southwestern Florida House seat, while a former Democratic congresswoman and a Republican senator emerged triumphant in Alaska's unusual all-party Senate primary, signaling a competitive contest ahead.