Oliver Larkin, a self-described democratic socialist inspired by U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, is running against incumbent U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz for the 2026 Democratic nomination in South Florida’s 25th Congressional District. The primary election is scheduled for August 18, 2026. Larkin, who recently changed his voter registration from Broward to Palm Beach County, positions himself as a candidate capable of shifting American political dynamics through progressive policy changes.
Progressive Platform and Policy Goals
Larkin’s campaign platform focuses on significant structural changes to the U.S. government and healthcare systems. He advocates for tuition-free college at public universities, Medicare for All that includes vision, hearing, dental, mental health, and reproductive care with no premiums or copays, and an end to fossil fuel extraction in favor of solar energy. Additionally, he supports abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), implementing 18-year term limits for Supreme Court justices, expanding the court to 13 members, and imposing a moratorium on new AI data centers due to water usage concerns.
The candidate also emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, supporting federal laws banning discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. If Democrats gain control of the House, Larkin has stated he would vote to impeach President Donald Trump. His political journey began after graduating from Sewanee in 2015 with student loan debt; inspired by Sanders’ presidential campaign, he volunteered and later became a paid staffer across six states.
Challenging the Incumbent
The race is viewed as an uphill battle for Larkin against Moskowitz, who seeks his third term. Critics within the progressive movement argue that Moskowitz has become too aligned with corporate interests and Republican policies. A central point of contention is Moskowitz’s vote in favor of the Laken Riley Act, which mandates detention for undocumented immigrants charged with certain crimes—a bill signed by Trump during his second term.
Larkin has criticized Moskowitz for being "too close" to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and spending more time on Fox News than engaging directly with constituents in the 25th District. The incumbent’s campaign asserts that sharing a venue with Larkin would be inappropriate, though this stance allows Larkin to accuse his opponent of avoiding debates.
Grassroots Support and Campaign Dynamics
Despite being considered a long shot by many observers, Larkin has generated an enthusiastic following among younger Democrats seeking change. Supporters like Paul Smailis, who attended a town hall at MAD Arts in Dania Beach on July 23, describe the campaign as a movement to counterbalance Florida’s Republican leanings. Smailis noted that while Moskowitz has financial advantages, Larkin possesses strong grassroots energy.
Recent high-profile primary victories by democratic socialists endorsed by the Democratic Socialists of America in other states have buoyed hopes for similar success in South Florida. As the August 18 primary approaches, volunteers are actively canvassing and phone banking to mobilize registered Democrats who feel disconnected from traditional centrist politics.
