Darren SotoServing

Darren Soto

U.S. HouseDemocrat

FL-09 U.S. House

Age 48·Puerto Rican and Italian-American·U.S. Representative for Florida's 9th District (2017-present)

Why This Race Matters

Darren Soto is running against Republican primary: Marcus Carter, Thomas Chalifoux, Jorge Malavet, Howard Steven Rance, Justin Story.

Rep. Soto is seeking his sixth term representing FL-09, a district where nearly 40% of residents are Puerto Rican. As the first Puerto Rican from Florida in Congress, he has become a leading voice on Puerto Rico issues including statehood and hurricane relief. He now serves as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI), the educational arm of the CHC.

In 2024, Soto won re-election with 55.1% of the vote (178,785 votes) against well-funded Republican Thomas Chalifoux (42.6%, 138,076 votes). Chalifoux self-funded $2.5 million and was backed by the NRCC. The 2026 Democratic primary is August 18, 2026.

Key dates to watch: Primary on August 18, 2026 and General Election on November 3, 2026.

About

Darren Soto made history in 2016 when he became the first Floridian of Puerto Rican descent elected to Congress. Born in Ringwood, New Jersey, to a Puerto Rican father (O. Lou Soto) and an Italian-American mother (Jean Soto), he moved to Central Florida in 2002 while attending law school and became a proud "Florida Rican." Before Congress, he served five years in the Florida House (2007-2012) and four years in the Florida Senate (2012-2016). In his first congressional term, he passed the most laws of any freshman member. Beyond politics, he is the singer, guitarist, and songwriter for Orlando folk rock band Orange Creek Riders, which has released three albums.

Family & Heritage

Born in Ringwood, New Jersey. Father O. Lou Soto is Puerto Rican; mother Jean Soto is Italian-American. Married Sheyla Asencios in January 2026 in Orlando. Previously married to Amanda Soto. Resides in Kissimmee, Florida.

Political Career

Before Politics

Attorney practicing commercial, real estate, family, and civil rights law; Served as class counsel in voting rights lawsuit against City of Kissimmee on behalf of Hispanic residents; Admitted to Florida Bar (2005)

Education

B.A. in Economics, Rutgers University (2000); J.D., George Washington University Law School (2004)

Key Issues & Priorities

*Puerto Rico statehood and disaster relief
*Hurricane preparedness and FEMA reform
*Environmental protection and clean energy
*Healthcare access and Medicaid equity
*Veterans affairs
*Immigration reform and DACA protections