MIAMI — Democratic candidate Richard Lamondin says his campaign has raised more than $300,000 in just 60 days as he prepares to challenge Republican state Sen. Alexis Calatayud in one of Florida Democrats’ top legislative targets for 2026.
Lamondin, an entrepreneur and first-time candidate, announced the fundraising milestone this week after relaunching his campaign on April 7. The Democrat initially entered the election cycle seeking Florida’s 27th Congressional District before shifting his focus to Senate District 38.
According to Lamondin’s campaign, nearly 200 donors contributed to the effort, with more than 80% of contributions reportedly coming from South Florida residents. Official campaign finance reports covering the April through May reporting period are expected to be filed with the state on June 10.
The campaign’s fundraising announcement was accompanied by sharp criticism of Calatayud’s donor base, with campaign officials arguing that the Republican incumbent has relied heavily on contributions from corporations, political committees, and special-interest groups.
Democrats Target Key Senate Seat
Senate District 38 has emerged as one of the Florida Democratic Party’s top priorities heading into the 2026 election cycle.
The district includes portions of Miami-Dade County, including Cutler Bay, Key Biscayne, Palmetto Bay, Pinecrest, South Miami, Coral Gables, parts of Miami and Homestead, along with several unincorporated communities.
Democratic campaign officials believe the district presents one of their strongest opportunities to flip a Republican-held Senate seat.
Senate Victory, the Democratic caucus’ campaign arm, has designated SD 38 as a top target as the party seeks to narrow the Republican majority in Tallahassee.
Strong Democratic Support
Lamondin’s campaign has secured endorsements from several prominent Democratic figures, including Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried, Senate Democratic Leader Lori Berman, and Senate Democratic Leader-designate Tracie Davis.
Additional endorsements have come from current and former state lawmakers, local elected officials, and Democratic activists throughout South Florida.
Supporters argue that Lamondin’s fundraising success demonstrates grassroots enthusiasm and growing support for Democratic efforts in Miami-Dade County.
Republicans Hold Advantage
Despite Democratic optimism, Republicans maintain a significant advantage in statewide elections and legislative races across Florida.
Calatayud won the district by nearly nine percentage points in 2022 and enters the race as an incumbent with an established fundraising network and support from Republican leadership.
Political analysts note that while fundraising can be an important indicator of campaign strength, voter registration trends, turnout, and broader political dynamics will likely play a larger role in determining the outcome.
Independent candidate Jeffrey Solomon has also entered the race.
Candidate qualifying is scheduled for June 8 through June 10. Florida’s Primary Election will be held Aug. 18, followed by the General Election on Nov. 3.
As campaign finance reports become public, voters will gain a clearer picture of how both candidates are funding their campaigns and where financial support is coming from as one of South Florida’s most closely watched legislative races begins to take shape.
