Siena College Research Institute Director Dr. Don Levy said: “Heading into the closing days, DeSantis extended his lead from eight points in September to 12 points today, leading Crist 54-42%. DeSantis has picked up a chunk of Democratic support; while Crist not surprisingly has a huge lead with Democrats, 84-14%, it’s down from 90-2% last month. Voters view DeSantis favorably, 52-41%, and Crist unfavorably, 34-39%. Additionally, 72% of voters say they’re completely (47%) or somewhat (25%) satisfied with DeSantis’ handling of Hurricane Ian.

“While Demings hasn’t lost ground against Rubio, like Crist has to DeSantis, she also hasn’t gained any ground and remains eight points back. Rubio attracts the support of 11% of Democrats, compared to the 6% of Republicans supporting Demings, and he leads among independents by five points. While Rubio has a breakeven favorability rating, 45-44%, and Demings’ is more positive, 38-31%, nearly one-third of voters either never heard of or have no opinion about Demings.

“In a state where voters are happy with the direction of the state – 57% say it’s headed on the right track – and very unhappy with the direction of the country – 63% say it’s headed in the wrong direction – it’s hard to see how the incumbent Republican statewide officials will come up short on Tuesday.”