Alex Sink is Sunk, Jolly Wins Special Election in CD13

Republican, David Jolly brought home a win for Pinellas County and the GOP on Tuesday night.

In the highly anticipated special election between David Jolly and Alex Sink in Congressional District 13, the nation watched to see who would emerge victorious. The race garnered national attention and both parties saw this election as a litmus test of what’s to come in November.

It was no surprise Alex Sink and her platform fell short on Election day. Democrats historically have a difficult time turning out voters during a midterm election, and this race was no exception. Jolly outpaced Democrat Alex Sink by about 3,400 votes out of 183,000. The Associated Press called the race for Jolly less than an hour after polls closed.

Outside interest groups poured over $12 million into the district, and both candidates positioned themselves on either side of Obamacare. In the end, Republicans flocked to the polls, and sent a clear message: Democrats beware, no more Obamacare.

The failed rollout of Obamacare laid the ground work for a potential win for Republicans, and Jolly capitalized on it. Campaigning on a platform to repeal/replace Obamacare, Jolly’s stance resonated with voters.

The GOP victory in CD13 proves two things are for certain: David Jolly’s win in Pinellas County was the tipping point Republicans had been hoping for after losing to President Obama in 2012, and the political toxicity of Obamacare will be a lethal weapon for Republicans in the upcoming election.

The election of David Jolly is a lease in March with an option to buy in November. Here’s to hoping the Republicans can keep the winning streak alive.