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NewsWMNF Tampa Community RadioAugust 14, 2026Hillsborough

Tampa Bay Times editor and political scientists discuss Florida primary races and polling accuracy

A WMNF radio program featured analysis of upcoming Florida primary races and expert guidance on how the public and media should interpret political polling data. The discussion highlighted specific competitive races and the methodology differences between internal and independent polls.

electionspollingmediaFlorida politics
Read the full story at WMNF Tampa Community Radio

Why It Matters

Residents are provided with expert context on how to evaluate political polling data and the current state of key Florida primary contests ahead of the November midterms.

Key Facts

  • The primary election is scheduled for one week after the Aug. 14 broadcast date.
  • The race between Rep. Angie Nixon and Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman is described as a toss-up.
  • Michael A. Bailey authored the book 'Polling At A Crossroads'.
  • Experts discussed the distinction between internal polls and those conducted by independent pollsters.
  • The discussion was broadcast on WMNF and is available on Apple Music, TuneIn, and Spotify.

Who's Mentioned

personMichael Van Sickler“Tampa Bay Times political editor.”personAngie Nixon“Representative involved in a competitive race.”personMichael A. Bailey“Professor at Georgetown University and author of 'Polling At A Crossroads'.”organizationWMNF“Radio station hosting the discussion.”personAlexander Vindman“Lieutenant Colonel involved in a competitive race.”personDavid Jolly“Former Republican mentioned as a potential Democratic candidate for governor.”personSusan MacManus“Professor emeritus of political science at the University of South Florida.”personLawton Chiles“Former Governor of Florida.”organizationGeorgetown University“Academic institution.”organizationUniversity of South Florida“Academic institution.”