USF poll: DeSantis, Rubio lead in favorability ratings among Floridians
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The University of South Florida conducted a statewide survey of 600 Floridians to measure public opinion around the upcoming general election in November.
The poll asked about important issues heading into the election, favorability ratings of candidates for Florida governor and senate, presidential/gubernatorial job approval, and perceptions of the Democratic and Republican parties.
Here are some of the key takeaways:
Gov. Ron DeSantis and Senator Marco Rubio lead in favorability ratings
In the race for Florida governor and senate, 52% of survey respondents favor DeSantis over Democratic opponent Charlie Crist, and 40% favor Marco Rubio over Democratic opponent Val Demings.
DeSantis has a strong approval among Floridians
Majority of the survey respondents (57%) said they approve of the job incumbent Gov. DeSantis is doing when it comes to jobs and the economy. At cleat 72% said they approve how DeSantis is handling the destruction left behind by Hurricane Ian. "The Governor received plurality support in several other key areas, including immigration (48%), climate change (43%) and unifying Floridians (50%)," USF said.
Many Floridians find it hard to stay optimistic
In the current political environment, 57% of respondents said they worry that the country’s best days may be behind us, according to USF. "Only 27% expressed confidence that America’s best days are still to come. Only 46% felt that Democratic party leaders "are optimistic when they talk about America’s future". Only 41% said the same of Republicans," the university said in a statement.
Some Floridians say they’re open to supporting a more moderate "third party"
The poll asked Floridians if they would support the formation of a more centrist third party and 46% said that they would be at least somewhat supportive of the idea, while 46% also said that they would be at least somewhat likely to vote for a third party candidate for President if the candidate were qualified to serve in the office and held centrist views that compromised between traditional Republican and Democratic positions.
The poll results in its entirety can be viewed here.
The general election will be held on Nov. 8.