Republican Wins Special Election As Dems Fall Short After Massive Efforts
Republican Hilary Holley has defeated Democrat Edwin Pérez in a Special Election for Florida House District 51, denying Democrats a pickup they had hoped to secure in a Midterm election year. With nearly all precincts reporting, Holley won with about 55% of the vote, holding the seat for Republicans.
Holley will replace term-limited Republican Rep. Josie Tomkow in the Polk County-based district. The race had drawn attention as Democrats looked to capitalize on broader economic concerns and Midterm dynamics, Florida Politics reported.
“Representative-Elect Hilary Holley in House District 51 will be a tremendous addition to the Florida House of Representatives, given her unmatched experience in the agricultural community,” House Speaker-Designate Sam Garrison said. “Voters have made the right decision in electing the far superior candidate,” he said.
District 51 includes much of Polk County, including Polk City, Davenport, Haines City, Lake Alfred and Auburndale. Despite a slightly narrower margin than Tomkow’s nearly 57% win in 2024, Republicans maintained a clear advantage in the district.
Voter registration numbers also favored the GOP, with roughly 34% of voters registered as Republicans compared to about 31% as Democrats. Nearly one-third of voters in the district are not affiliated with a political party.
Holley also held a significant fundraising edge throughout the race. She raised more than $122,000, along with nearly $134,000 in in-kind contributions, largely from Republican Party organizations.
Pérez raised just over $13,000 and added a $2,000 loan, with less than $1,800 in in-kind support. The financial gap underscored the uphill battle Democrats faced in attempting to flip the seat.
Holley secured endorsements from several prominent Florida Republicans, including former state Sen. Denise Grimsley, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and former Rep. Neil Combee. She also received backing from Tomkow, whom she will replace.
Holley currently serves as Executive Director of the Florida FFA Foundation, overseeing programs that support more than 65,000 student members across the state. She previously worked as a legislative aide and held roles in agricultural education and public service.
Pérez, a community advocate from Haines City, centered his campaign on affordability issues, rising insurance costs and a projected funding shortfall in the Polk County school district. Officials have warned the current $2.5 million gap could grow significantly in the coming years.
Meanwhile, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is criticizing a Republican-led election bill, accusing GOP lawmakers of pushing what he described as “voter suppression” measures. His comments came ahead of an expected vote on the SAVE America Act in the House, Fox News reported.
“Republicans have adopted voter suppression as an electoral strategy. That’s what the so-called SAVE Act is all about,” Jeffries said during a press conference. He argued the latest version of the bill goes further than a previous iteration passed in 2025.
The SAVE America Act would require proof of citizenship for voter registration nationwide. It would also establish a federal voter ID requirement for casting ballots in national elections.
The legislation, led by Rep. Chip Roy and Sen. Mike Lee, includes provisions aimed at improving the verification of voter eligibility. Supporters argue the bill is necessary to secure elections and ensure only eligible citizens vote.
Jeffries also raised concerns about data-sharing provisions in the bill. “This version, as I understand it, will actually give the Department of Homeland Security the power to get voting records from states across the country,” Jeffries said.
He questioned why such authority would be granted, suggesting it could lead to misuse of voter data. Republicans have rejected those claims and maintain the bill is focused on election integrity.
The House is expected to take up the measure for a vote in the coming days.
BREAKING: Trump joins wife Melania in calling on ABC to fire Jimmy Kimmel
Trump demands ABC fire Jimmy Kimmel ‘immediately’ after ‘expectant widow’ quip about Melania
President Trump called on ABC to fire Jimmy Kimmel on Monday after the comedian referred to Melania Trump as “an expectant widow” two days before Saturday’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
“Jimmy Kimmel should be immediately fired by Disney and ABC,” the president wrote in a post on Truth Social, echoing a call made by the first lady earlier in the day.
“Kimmel, who is in no way funny as attested to by his terrible Television Ratings, made a statement on his Show that is really shocking. He showed a fake video of the First Lady, Melania, and our son, Barron, like they were actually sitting in his studio, listening to him speak, which they weren’t, and never would be,” the president noted.
One of Washington, DC’s social events of the year, the 2026 White House Correspondents’ Dinner received outsize attention due to the president and first lady attending for the first time since they entered the White House.
Kimmel mocked the event on his show Thursday night, giving his own speech in which he said: “Our first lady, Melania, is here. Look at Melania, so beautiful. Mrs. Trump, you have a glow like an expectant widow.”
Melania Trump savagely criticized the late-night host earlier Monday, calling him a “coward” who “hides behind ABC because he knows the network will keep running cover to protect him.”
“Enough is enough,” the first lady added on X. “It is time for ABC to take a stand. How many times will ABC’s leadership enable Kimmel’s atrocious behavior at the expense of our community?”
The Trump administration launched an all-out assault on Kimmel and also went after Democratic lawmakers who were critical of the president, saying their rhetoric led to incidents like the one that took place Saturday night.
“Who, in their right mind, says a wife would be glowing over the potential murder of her beloved husband?” asked White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt on Monday. “And having experienced what I did with the first lady on Saturday night, I can tell you that she was anything but.”
Leavitt, who is nine months pregnant, was seated at the head table at Saturday night’s dinner, next to the first lady.
Both women had to crawl off stage as security escorted them — and the president — to safety.
Kimmel is facing severe backlash after Saturday’s attack on the gala dinner, in which a Secret Service agent suffered minor injuries after a gunman charged a checkpoint in a bid to kill President Trump and others in his administration.
Cole Allen, 31, was detained by authorities and was arraigned on multiple federal charges Monday afternoon in the DC federal court.
Monday marked the second time Trump has called for the comedian’s firing. The first was in September 2025, when Kimmel was taken off the air for a week following backlash from affiliates in the wake of his comments about conservative activist Charlie Kirk following his assassination.
The week-long suspension of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” prompted widespread boycotts of Disney, with liberals accusing it of violating the First Amendment.
Kimmel failed to apologize upon his return to the air Sept. 23, but said: “It was never my intention to make light of a murder of a young man. I don’t think there’s anything funny about it.”
But President Trump fumed about ABC’s decision to give him his show back.
“I can’t believe ABC Fake News gave Jimmy Kimmel his job back,” he wrote in a Truth Social post at the time.
“The White House was told by ABC that his Show was cancelled! Something happened between then and now because his audience is GONE, and his ‘talent’ was never there.”
Savannah Guthrie Reveals She Will Never Speak to Her Sister Again After Disturbing Family Dinner Incident
Savannah Guthrie, the well-known television journalist and co-anchor of NBC’s Today show, has recently shared a deeply personal and emotional revelation about her family. In a candid interview, Savannah disclosed that she has made the heartbreaking decision to sever all communication with her sister. This drastic step came after Savannah witnessed her sister’s unacceptable treatment of their mother during what was supposed to be a meaningful family dinner. The incident has not only strained their sibling relationship but also brought to light the complexities of family loyalty and respect.
The Heartbreaking Dinner That Changed Everything
Family dinners are traditionally moments of connection, warmth, and shared memories. However, for Savannah Guthrie, the last dinner she shared with her sister was anything but that. According to Savannah, the evening was marred by her sister’s disrespectful and hurtful behavior towards their mother. The specifics of the confrontation have not been fully disclosed, but Savannah’s words paint a vivid picture of emotional turmoil and disappointment."
"Savannah expressed her profound disillusionment by stating, “She doesn’t deserve to be my mother’s daughter.” This powerful statement underscores the depth of her hurt and the seriousness of the situation. It reveals not only a personal betrayal but also a breach of familial respect that Savannah finds unforgivable. The incident has evidently left a lasting impact on her, prompting her to take a firm stand to protect her mother’s dignity and well-being.
Understanding the Impact of Family Conflicts on Personal Relationships
Family conflicts, especially those involving parents and siblings, can have far-reaching effects on personal relationships. Savannah Guthrie’s experience highlights how unresolved issues and disrespect can lead to permanent rifts. When a family member’s behavior crosses a line, it forces others to reevaluate their relationships and boundaries."
In Savannah’s case, her decision to cut ties with her sister is a protective measure. It reflects her commitment to safeguarding her mother from further emotional harm and maintaining her own mental and emotional health. This situation also sheds light on the importance of communication, empathy, and respect within families to prevent such painful divisions.
Moreover, Savannah’s story resonates with many who have faced similar challenges. It serves as a reminder that while family bonds are significant, they should not come at the expense of personal dignity and respect. Sometimes, difficult decisions are necessary to preserve one’s values and emotional well-being.
How Savannah Guthrie’s Story Can Inspire Others
Savannah Guthrie’s openness about her family struggles is a testament to her courage and authenticity. By sharing her story, she encourages others to confront their own family issues honestly and to prioritize their mental health. It also emphasizes that setting boundaries, even with close relatives, is a vital part of self-care.
Her experience can inspire individuals to seek support, whether through counseling, trusted friends, or support groups, when dealing with family conflicts. It also highlights the importance of standing up against disrespect and advocating for loved ones who may be vulnerable.
Moving Forward: Healing and Hope Beyond Family Strife
While Savannah Guthrie’s decision to cut off contact with her sister is undoubtedly painful, it also marks the beginning of a healing journey. Family conflicts, especially those involving deep emotional wounds, require time, patience, and sometimes professional help to resolve.
For Savannah, focusing on her mother’s well-being and nurturing positive relationships with other family members may provide solace and strength. It also opens the door for potential reconciliation in the future, should her sister choose to acknowledge her mistakes and make amends.
This story reminds us that family dynamics are complex and ever-changing. While some relationships may end or pause, others can grow stronger through understanding and forgiveness.
Conclusion
Savannah Guthrie’s revelation about her decision to never speak to her sister again after witnessing her mistreatment of their mother is a powerful example of the challenges many families face. It underscores the importance of respect, boundaries, and self-care in maintaining healthy relationships. If you or someone you know is struggling with family conflicts, remember that seeking help and setting boundaries can be crucial steps toward healing. Stay informed and empowered by following our updates on family dynamics and personal well-being.
