In a closely watched contest for Florida’s 23rd Congressional District, Republican George Moraitis has made a significant fundraising start as a candidate, nearly matching the incumbent, U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz, within his first month. Moraitis reported raising $152,369 over 29 days in March, averaging approximately $5,254 daily. In contrast, Moskowitz raised $168,960 over the first quarter, averaging $1,877 per day.
While Moraitis’s initial fundraising is impressive for a first-time congressional candidate, the challenge ahead remains substantial, as he must continue to build on this momentum to overcome the Democratic incumbent. Similarly, Moskowitz will need to amplify his efforts to defend his seat against a robust Republican challenge. The upcoming August 2026 primary and subsequent November general election in the Broward-Palm Beach county 23rd Congressional District will play a crucial role in determining the balance of power in the House of Representatives following the midterm elections.
Regarding campaign finances, Moskowitz secured $123,000 from individual contributors and $46,000 from political action committees and a congressional colleague. In comparison, Moraitis raised $146,800 from individual supporters and $4,000 from one PAC and a fellow Congress member. Moskowitz’s expenditures of nearly $111,000 reflect typical incumbent spending patterns, including consultancy fees and staff salaries, whereas Moraitis spent just under $9,000.
As of March 31, Moskowitz had $392,500 in his campaign account, whereas Moraitis reported $253,400. Moskowitz’s higher cash reserves partly stem from a carryover of $349,000 from his 2024 campaign. Both candidates have made personal loans to their campaigns, with Moskowitz still owed $100,700 from previous financing, while Moraitis contributed $111,000 to his campaign.
In the broader political landscape of the 23rd District, which encompasses northern Broward and stretches through parts of Fort Lauderdale down to southern Palm Beach County, financial resources are just one piece of the electoral puzzle. Political analyst observations suggest both candidates will likely secure sufficient funds to mount credible campaigns. While Moraitis is expected to enhance his fundraising over the summer, Moskowitz’s challenge might lie in addressing perceptions of partisan alignment among his Democratic constituents.
Moskowitz, seeking a third term, brings experience as a former Parkland city commissioner and state emergency management director, while Moraitis offers his tenure as a former state representative from a district overlapping with the congressional area. The district’s changing political dynamics are noteworthy, with the Cook Political Report rating it as D plus 2, indicating a slight Democratic lean in prior elections. This shift highlights potential Republican gains, as observed across Florida.
Additional Republican candidates vying for the nomination include Raven Harrison, Joe Kaufman, and Darlene Cerezo Swaffar. Although these contenders bring varied backgrounds and experiences, Moraitis is receiving serious attention from national Republicans, meeting recently with congressional leaders in Washington, D.C. His candidacy could position the district as a focal point for national political strategy if he secures the primary nomination.
The 23rd Congressional District race stands as a critical barometer of party influence in Florida, with national Republicans identifying it as a competitive opportunity. The outcome may significantly influence the partisan composition of the House amid shifting political tides.