Republican Scott Franklin wins Polk County congressional seat; school tax referendum passes

Republican Rep. Scott Franklin secured reelection in the redrawn District 18, which now encompasses all of Polk County and a portion of Osceola County, according to WUSF. With 99% of votes counted, Franklin received 49.7%, defeating Democrat Curtis Gibson, who earned 47.3%, and a non-party candidate with 3%.

The Cook Political Report classified the district as solidly Republican. Franklin, a Navy veteran first elected in 2020, maintained a significant fundraising advantage over his opponents.

Voters also approved a school referendum adding a 1-mill property tax dedicated to Polk County Public Schools operations and employee retention, passing with 60.6% of the vote. The tax is expected to generate about $65.6 million for the district.

Approximately 80% of the new funds, or $52.5 million, will support additional compensation aimed at recruiting and retaining school employees. The remaining 20% will fund school safety, fine and performing arts, career and technical education, and early childhood education programs. Charter schools will receive an estimated $13.6 million based on enrollment, as mandated by state law.

These results impact Polk County residents and reflect local priorities on education funding and congressional representation under the new district boundaries.