ORLANDO, Fla. – As early voting is underway in five Central Florida counties, candidates and supporters on both sides are making stops in Central Florida trying to snag support from early voters.
Former Vice President Joe Biden was in downtown Orlando on Tuesday afternoon. He held a Democratic rally supporting nominee for governor Andrew Gillum and U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson.
"Democrats have to choose hope over fear, unity over division," said Biden.
Biden said it's time for change in Florida and agrees that the I-4 corridor plays a huge factor in deciding who takes home the win in the state.
"Our path to winning back the House runs directly through -- and the Senate -- runs through Orlando," said Biden.
Former Vice President Joe Biden speaking at Cheyenne Saloon in Orlando on Oct. 23, 2018 at a campaign event for Florida Democratic candidates. (Image: Jeff Segers/WKMG)
Nelson, who is running for re-election, was also at Tuesday's rally in Orlando as part of a statewide tour to claim voters. He and many other Democratic candidates spoke in Tampa on Monday.
"The folks of Florida need somebody that they can trust," Nelson said.
Florida Gov. Rick Scott is running against Nelson for his seat in the Senate.
Scott was in the Panhandle on Tuesday and announced that Visit Florida is launching a new $9 million campaign to support the Panhandle following Hurricane Michael and to address red tide.
Many voters said it’s the major state and national races this year and a higher sense of awareness that are sparking more interest in voting, especially early voting.
"I think, like many people in Florida, the governor’s race is really important to me, and the senator's race," said Teri Reute, who early voted.
Other voters believe politicians campaigning in the Central Florida area can be vital.
"I think the I-4 corridor is a huge opportunity for politicians to come and stake their claim," said resident Mike Parker.