Vote 2026: Results for merit retention votes for Florida judges for Nov. 3, 2026

In Florida, judges on the state’s six appellate courts, as well as the justices on the state Supreme Court, are appointed by the governor, following screenings by a Judicial Nominating Committee. However, after their nomination, they must go before voters for a merit retention vote, in order to remain in their position. Newly-appointed judges go on a general election ballot within three years of their appointment. If they are retained, they serve a six-year term, and face retention votes at the end of each term. If a judge is not retained, they will be replaced in the same manner they were appointed.Florida’s First District Court of Appeal is based in Tallahassee, and hears cases from the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 8th, and 14th circuits. In Northeast Florida, that includes Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Columbia, and Union counties.Florida’s Fifth District Court of Appeal is based in Daytona Beach, and hears cases from the 4th, 5th, 7th, and 18th circuits. In Northeast Florida, that includes Clay, Duv