
Two siblings—former state senator Randolph Bracy and current state representative LaVon Bracy Davis—are facing off in a rare Florida state Senate Democratic primary, turning the District 15 race in western Orange County into an extraordinary political and family drama.
At a Glance
- Randolph Bracy and LaVon Bracy Davis are siblings competing for the same state Senate seat
- The race will fill the seat of the late Senator Geraldine Thompson
- Other contenders include former U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson and attorney Coretta Anthony-Smith
- The seat leans heavily Democratic, so the primary winner is likely to take the general election
- Their mother, Lavon Wright Bracy, has publicly endorsed her daughter
Sibling Rivalry Enters the Ballot Box
According to AP News, former state Senator Randolph Bracy, 48, launched his campaign seeking to return to the state Senate after having served previously. His younger sister, LaVon Bracy Davis, 45, a first-term state representative, announced her candidacy in March after the passing of the district’s previous officeholder and longtime family friend, Geraldine Thompson.
Their mother, civil rights activist Lavon Wright Bracy—who was maid of honor at Thompson’s wedding—has endorsed LaVon, adding another layer of intrigue to this already unusual political race.
Inside the Contest: Platforms and Personal Stakes
Both siblings are running on progressive platforms, championing issues like expanded voting rights, education funding, and civil rights—causes long associated with Thompson’s legacy. LaVon Bracy Davis has positioned her campaign as a continuation of Thompson’s vision, while Randolph Bracy is campaigning on his prior Senate experience and legislative accomplishments.
Also in the race are former U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson, known for his outspoken style, and Coretta Anthony-Smith, an Orlando attorney running on a platform of community engagement and legal advocacy.
Watch a report: Sibling rivals shake up Florida’s Senate District 15 race.
Why It Matters
District 15, covering western Orange County, leans strongly Democratic, making the August primary the de facto deciding contest. The unusual sibling rivalry has attracted both media attention and local interest—energizing voters while creating visible divisions in the local Democratic establishment.
The winner will likely face Republican Willie Montague in the general election but is heavily favored to win the seat in this blue-leaning district.
What’s Next?
With the primary just weeks away, Orlando voters will soon choose between LaVon’s fresh voice and alignment with Geraldine Thompson’s legacy, or Randolph’s deeper legislative resume and prior Senate leadership. The outcome could influence local Democratic dynamics—and test the resilience of family ties in the public eye.
No matter the result, this remarkable race offers a reminder that politics can be intensely personal, and that in some cases, no contest is closer than family.