Florida's 8th Congressional District election, 2026

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Florida's 8th Congressional District
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General election
Election details
Filing deadline: April 24, 2026
Primary: August 18, 2026
General: November 3, 2026
How to vote
Poll times:

7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Voting in Florida

Race ratings
Cook Political Report: Solid Republican
DDHQ and The Hill: Pending
Inside Elections: Solid Republican
Sabato's Crystal Ball: Safe Republican
Ballotpedia analysis
U.S. Senate battlegrounds
U.S. House battlegrounds
Federal and state primary competitiveness
Ballotpedia's Election Analysis Hub, 2026
See also
Florida's 8th Congressional District
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Florida elections, 2026
U.S. Congress elections, 2026
U.S. Senate elections, 2026
U.S. House elections, 2026

All U.S. House districts, including the 8th Congressional District of Florida, are holding elections in 2026. The general election is November 3, 2026. To learn more about other elections on the ballot, click here.

Candidates and election results

Note: The following list includes official candidates only. Ballotpedia defines official candidates as people who:

  • Register with a federal or state campaign finance agency before the candidate filing deadline
  • Appear on candidate lists released by government election agencies

Note: At this time, Ballotpedia is combining all declared candidates for this election into one list under a general election heading. As primary election dates are published, this information will be updated to separate general election candidates from primary candidates as appropriate.

General election

The general election will occur on November 3, 2026.

General election for U.S. House Florida District 8

Incumbent Mike Haridopolos, Paul Dellinger, and Lacey Villareal are running in the general election for U.S. House Florida District 8 on November 3, 2026.

Candidate
Image of Mike Haridopolos
Mike Haridopolos (R)
Image of Paul Dellinger
Paul Dellinger (D) Candidate Connection
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Lacey Villareal (Independent)

Incumbents are bolded and underlined.

Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

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Candidate profiles

This section includes candidate profiles that may be created in one of two ways: either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey, or Ballotpedia staff may compile a profile based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements after identifying the candidate as noteworthy. For more on how we select candidates to include, click here.

Paul Dellinger

Image of Paul Dellinger

WebsiteFacebookYouTube

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography:  "I’m Paul Lyal Dellinger, a lifelong community advocate, content creator, acore/comedian and working-class Floridian running for Congress in Florida’s 8th District. I live in Rockledge with my partner, Joseph Cox, Professional Scenic Artist at the Cocoa Village Playhouse. My campaign is rooted in grassroots organizing — focused on affordable healthcare, affordability in general, supporting working families, and ensuring equality and dignity for every person. I believe change comes from the ground up, through compassion, accountability, and people power."

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

People over politics — fighting for working families, the disabled, marginalized communities, and everyday Floridians rather than special interests or party agendas.

Accountability and transparency — ensuring government officials deliver on promises and are fully responsible to their constituents.

Grassroots empowerment — mobilizing communities to have a real voice in decisions that affect their lives, from local issues to federal policy.

Voting information

See also: Voting in Florida

Election information in Florida: Nov. 3, 2026, election.

What is the voter registration deadline?

  • In-person: Oct. 5, 2026
  • By mail: Postmarked by Oct. 5, 2026
  • Online: Oct. 5, 2026

Is absentee/mail-in voting available to all voters?

N/A

What is the absentee/mail-in ballot request deadline?

  • In-person: Oct. 22, 2026
  • By mail: Received by Oct. 22, 2026
  • Online: Oct. 22, 2026

What is the absentee/mail-in ballot return deadline?

  • In-person: Nov. 3, 2026
  • By mail: Received by Nov. 3, 2026

Is early voting available to all voters?

Yes

What are the early voting start and end dates?

Oct. 24, 2026 to Oct. 31, 2026

Are all voters required to present ID at the polls? If so, is a photo or non-photo ID required?

N/A

When are polls open on Election Day?

7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (ET/CT)


Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

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Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

People over politics — fighting for working families, the disabled, marginalized communities, and everyday Floridians rather than special interests or party agendas.

Accountability and transparency — ensuring government officials deliver on promises and are fully responsible to their constituents.

Grassroots empowerment — mobilizing communities to have a real voice in decisions that affect their lives, from local issues to federal policy.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

Affordable access to healthcare and essential services — making sure everyone can get the care and support they need without financial hardship, while also advocating for civil rights, disability rights, and social justice.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

I look up to Conan O’Brien because of his creativity, intelligence, and resilience. He has built a career that combines humor with insight, always thinking outside the box and connecting with people from all walks of life. I admire his ability to remain authentic and curious, to adapt through challenges, and to use his platform to engage, entertain, and inspire others. Conan’s dedication to his craft and his ability to bring joy while provoking thought are qualities I hope to bring to my own work in public service.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

Integrity, courage, and accountability are essential. An elected official must be willing to fight for the people they represent, not special interests, and have the empathy to understand the struggles of working families, the disabled, and marginalized communities. Transparency and a willingness to listen are just as important as bold action.
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Paul Dellinger (D)

A representative’s core responsibility is to serve their constituents — protecting access to affordable healthcare, advocating for working families, ensuring civil rights, and bringing attention to local issues, from environmental concerns to education and infrastructure. They must listen, amplify local voices, and work to create solutions that reflect the district’s values and needs.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

want to leave a legacy of service, accountability, and tangible change. I hope to be remembered as someone who fought for working families, the disabled, marginalized communities, and everyday Floridians — someone who didn’t just talk about change but helped create it. I want to inspire others to get involved, to believe that government can work for the people, and to show that compassion, courage, and persistence can make a real difference in our communities.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

Bill Clinton’s reelection campaign, I was 5.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

My very first job was overnight clerk at 7-11, I held it for three years.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

I’m a big fan of manga and anime, and one of my favorite series is Dragon Ball. I love it not just for the action and adventure, but for the themes of perseverance, friendship, and personal growth. Manga has inspired me to think creatively, stay resilient in the face of challenges, and value teamwork — lessons I carry into both my personal life and public service.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

If I could be any fictional character, I would choose Superman. I admire his commitment to justice, his courage in standing up for the vulnerable, and his dedication to using his abilities to help others. Like Superman, I want to use whatever skills and resources I have to make a positive difference in people’s lives and stand up for what is right, even when it’s difficult.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

Mental health has been a real struggle in my life, especially in my 20s. Balancing a full-time job while raising toddlers with my ex-wife was incredibly challenging. It taught me firsthand how demanding life can be when support systems are limited and mental health is overlooked. Those experiences shaped my empathy and drive to advocate for better mental health resources, support for working parents, and policies that help families thrive without being stretched beyond their limits.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

The House is uniquely close to the people, with representatives directly accountable every two years. Its size, diversity, and direct connection to districts allow for a real reflection of America’s communities and local needs.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

Experience can help, but it is not required. Commitment, empathy, and the willingness to fight for constituents matter more than career politics. Sometimes, fresh voices bring the clarity and energy government needs.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

Healthcare affordability, climate change, economic inequality, protecting civil rights, and ensuring our democracy functions fairly and transparently are the biggest challenges. We also need to address social support systems, accessibility for the disabled, and quality education for all children.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

Yes. A two-year term keeps representatives accountable to their constituents and ensures they stay connected to the district’s current needs.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

I support term limits because long-term incumbency can breed complacency and disconnect from the people. Fresh perspectives and new energy help keep government accountable and responsive.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

I admire Bill Nelson’s work as a Florida Democrat. He focused on practical solutions for working families, supported space and tech industries in our district, and stayed grounded in the needs of everyday Floridians. I aim to model that balance of vision, advocacy, and responsiveness.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

One story that has stuck with me comes from working with people navigating healthcare and accessibility challenges in our community. I’ve seen parents struggling to get their children proper support, people with disabilities facing barriers in education and employment, and families burdened by medical costs. These experiences are personal to me because I see them in my neighbors and in the people I interact with every day. They’ve reinforced why I’m running — to fight for real solutions, accountability, and a government that actually listens and acts for its people.
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Paul Dellinger (D)

Compromise can be necessary, but not at the expense of fundamental rights or the wellbeing of people. You don’t compromise on healthcare, civil rights, or safety. Principled compromise means finding solutions where it doesn’t harm the most vulnerable.
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Paul Dellinger (D)

This power gives the House a critical role in shaping fair and equitable taxation and funding priorities. I would use it to ensure that revenue supports working families, affordable healthcare, education, infrastructure, and essential social services — not giveaways to corporations or special interests. It’s an opportunity to invest in the people of Florida’s 8th District and the nation.
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Paul Dellinger (D)

The House should use investigative powers to hold government and institutions accountable, uncover wrongdoing, and ensure transparency. Investigations should be thorough, nonpartisan, and focused on protecting the public, maintaining trust in government, and enforcing laws fairly.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

Brevard Community Organizing, Jessica Travis of Defend Brevard, more to come.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

One story that has stayed with me is from a parent struggling to get proper support for their child with disabilities. They shared how difficult it was navigating schools, healthcare, and advocacy systems that often failed them. Hearing their frustration and resilience was deeply moving and reinforced why I’m running — to fight for systems that actually work for families, protect civil rights, and ensure no one is left behind.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

One of my proudest accomplishments is raising my children. They are incredibly intelligent, creative, and passionate, especially about music and band, which brings them so much joy. Watching them grow into thoughtful, capable, and kind individuals has been the most rewarding part of my life, and it inspires me every day to work for a better future for all families.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

The U.S. should lead in ethical, responsible AI development, prioritizing safety, privacy, and fairness. AI should be used to improve healthcare, education, and public services, but strict regulations are needed to prevent misuse, bias, or harm to workers and vulnerable communities.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/PaulDellinger2025.jpeg

Paul Dellinger (D)

I would push for legislation that strengthens access to voting, protects the integrity of elections, and modernizes systems to be secure and transparent. This includes expanded vote-by-mail options, equitable polling access, secure and auditable technology, and measures to prevent voter suppression while ensuring all eligible voters can participate freely.


You can ask candidates in this race to fill out the survey by clicking their names below:

Campaign finance

Name Party Receipts* Disbursements** Cash on hand Date
Mike Haridopolos Republican Party $831,326 $415,681 $673,808 As of September 30, 2025
Paul Dellinger Democratic Party $2,705 $570 $2,135 As of September 30, 2025
Lacey Villareal Independent $0 $0 $0 Data not available***

Source: Federal Elections Commission, "Campaign finance data," 2026. This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).

* According to the FEC, "Receipts are anything of value (money, goods, services or property) received by a political committee."
** According to the FEC, a disbursement "is a purchase, payment, distribution, loan, advance, deposit or gift of money or anything of value to influence a federal election," plus other kinds of payments not made to influence a federal election.
*** Candidate either did not report any receipts or disbursements to the FEC, or Ballotpedia did not find an FEC candidate ID.

General election race ratings

See also: Race rating definitions and methods

Ballotpedia provides race ratings from four outlets: The Cook Political Report, Inside Elections, Sabato's Crystal Ball, and DDHQ/The Hill. Each race rating indicates if one party is perceived to have an advantage in the race and, if so, the degree of advantage:

  • Safe and Solid ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge and the race is not competitive.
  • Likely ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge, but an upset is possible.
  • Lean ratings indicate that one party has a small edge, but the race is competitive.[1]
  • Toss-up ratings indicate that neither party has an advantage.

Race ratings are informed by a number of factors, including polling, candidate quality, and election result history in the race's district or state.[2][3][4]

Race ratings: Florida's 8th Congressional District election, 2026
Race trackerRace ratings
12/9/202512/2/202511/25/202511/18/2025
The Cook Political Report with Amy WalterSolid RepublicanSolid RepublicanSolid RepublicanSolid Republican
Decision Desk HQ and The HillPendingPendingPendingPending
Inside Elections with Nathan L. GonzalesSolid RepublicanSolid RepublicanSolid RepublicanSolid Republican
Larry J. Sabato's Crystal BallSafe RepublicanSafe RepublicanSafe RepublicanSafe Republican
Note: Ballotpedia reviews external race ratings every week throughout the election season and posts weekly updates even if the media outlets have not revised their ratings during that week.

Ballot access

The table below details filing requirements for U.S. House candidates in Florida in the 2026 election cycle. For additional information on candidate ballot access requirements in Florida, click here.

Filing requirements for U.S. House candidates, 2026
State Office Party Signatures required Filing fee Filing deadline Source
Florida U.S. House Ballot-qualified party 1% of the registered voters in the geographical area of candidacy $10,440 4/24/2026 Source
Florida U.S. House Unaffiliated 1% of the registered voters in the geographical area of candidacy $6,960 4/24/2026 Source


District history

The section below details election results for this office in elections dating back to 2020.

2024

2022

2020

District analysis

This section will contain facts and figures related to this district's elections when those are available.

See also

Florida 2026 primaries 2026 U.S. Congress elections
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External links

Footnotes

  1. ↑ Inside Elections also uses Tilt ratings to indicate an even smaller advantage and greater competitiveness.
  2. ↑ Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Nathan Gonzalez," April 19, 2018
  3. ↑ Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Kyle Kondik," April 19, 2018
  4. ↑ Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Charlie Cook," April 22, 2018


Florida's current delegation to the United States Congress
Senators
Ashley Moody (R)
Rick Scott (R)
Representatives
District 1
District 2
Neal Dunn (R)
District 3
District 4
District 5
District 6
District 7
District 8
District 9
District 10
District 11
District 12
District 13
Anna Luna (R)
District 14
District 15
District 16
District 17
District 18
District 19
District 20
District 21
District 22
District 23
District 24
District 25
District 26
District 27
District 28
Republican Party (22)
Democratic Party (8)


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