Early voting starts today for Florida special elections

Early voting has started today for two special elections in Florida. In the race for the U.S. House District 1, Jimmy Patronis and Gay Valimont are competing to replace former Rep. Matt Gaetz, who left the seat in November. Meanwhile, in the Florida House District 3, voters will choose from eight Republican candidates. They are hoping to win their party's nomination after former Rep. Joel Rudman stepped down. The winner of this primary will face the only Democratic candidate in a special election on June 10. Florida has closed primaries. This means that voters can only vote for candidates from their own party. Early voting runs from today until Saturday, March 29. In Escambia County, polls are open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. In Santa Rosa County, polls are open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Residents can drop off their ballots at secure locations during early voting hours in Santa Rosa County. Specific locations include the Main Elections Office in Milton and the South Service Center in Gulf Breeze.