In the race for governor, the candidates become voters on election day

by John Lucas | Nov 6, 2018

Election day got off to a smooth start Tuesday morning in Florida, despite reports of a heavy turnout on this final day of votin

“I am pleased to report that all polls opened statewide on time and voters are casting ballots in all precincts,” declared Florida Secretary of State Ken Detzner late Tuesday morning. “Polls are open until 7 p.m. and any voters waiting in line at 7 p.m. will be able to cast a ballot. Division of Elections staff is communicating with each county Supervisor of Elections throughout the day and we stand ready to provide any needed assistance.

After months of campaigning, the candidates themselves took on the role of voters Tuesday to cast their ballots in this year’s midterm election. Republican Ron DeSantis and Democrat Andrew Gillum, the two men running in the high profile race for governor, were followed by cameras and reporters as they cast their ballots in their home areas — DeSantis in Ponte Vedra Beach and Gillum in Tallahassee.

Democrat gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum holds his son as they head into the polling precinct where Gillum cast his vote for himself.

“I can reveal I cast a vote for myself,” Gillum told reporters outside the voting precinct surrounded by family and friends..

If elected, Gillum would become the first black to serve as governor in Florida.

“Us winning tonight will send a message to Mr. Trump and Mr. DeSantis, as well, that the politics of hatred, division and separation, that they come to an end, at least in this election that’s what we’re going to show. That people are going out to vote for something and not against.”

DeSantis was joined by his wife and children at the poll today.

“Incredibly thankful for my family and their support. We cast our ballots this morning to secure Florida’s future. Will you join us?” DeSantis posted on Twitter.

Incredibly thankful for my family and their support. We cast our ballots this morning to secure Florida's future. Will you join us? #ElectionDay pic.twitter.com/j7n1hSMVSF

— Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantisFL) November 6, 2018

While polls in recent days have continued to give Gillum an advantage in the contest, the consensus among political observers is that the race could go either way. Real Clear Politics, which keeps an average of polls taken to date, shows Gillum with an average lead of 4-points over DeSantis in the race for governor.