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NewsFOX 13 Tampa BayNovember 4, 2026Hillsborough County

Governor DeSantis Discusses National Midterm Losses and Florida Election Results

Photo: FOX 13 Tampa Bay

Gov. Ron DeSantis described nationwide Republican losses in the 2026 midterm elections as a severe setback while highlighting Florida's continued Republican majorities. Speaking in Tallahassee, he warned that Democratic control of both chambers of Congress could complicate federal appointments and policy implementation during the remainder of President Donald Trump’s term. He also praised the passage of Amendment 3, a constitutional change expanding property tax exemptions set to take effect January 1, 2027.

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Why It Matters

The outcome of the midterm elections establishes a divided federal government for the final two years of President Trump's term, affecting future federal appointments and policy conflicts, while Florida property owners will see changes to homestead exemptions and s starting in January 2027.

Key Facts

  • Gov. Ron DeSantis described Republican national losses in the 2026 midterms as an 'extinction-level event' for the party.
  • Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress, creating a divided government for the remainder of President Donald Trump’s term.
  • DeSantis noted crucial Republican losses in traditionally solid states like Ohio and Texas, including Greg Abbott losing the Texas governor's race to Gina Hinojosa.
  • Florida remained under Republican control, with Byron Donalds elected governor and major statewide seats won by Republicans.
  • DeSantis stated that Florida was the only one of the 10 largest states expected to stay under Republican control.
  • Florida voters approved Amendment 3, expanding homestead property tax exemptions and lowering assessment caps for non-homestead properties.
  • Amendment 3 changes are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027.
  • DeSantis plans to work with the Florida Legislature in a special session on further homestead tax changes and limits on local government taxation.
  • Donalds is scheduled to take office as Florida's governor in January 2027.

Who's Mentioned

PersonRon DeSantis“Governor of Florida”PersonDonald Trump“President of the United States”locationTexas“State with gubernatorial election results”otherAmendment 3“Florida constitutional amendment on property tax exemptions”PersonByron Donalds“U.S. Representative elected Florida's next governor”PersonGreg Abbott“Outgoing Governor of Texas”PersonDavid Jolly“Democratic candidate for Florida governor”PersonGina Hinojosa“Texas state Representative who won gubernatorial race”locationTallahassee“City where press conference was held”locationOhio“State with gubernatorial and U.S. Senate election results”