What is a retention vote?

Instead of choosing between candidates, you vote YES or NO on whether each judge stays on the court for another term. A judge who doesn't get enough YES votes (a simple majority in most states) is removed, and the seat is filled by appointment.

Which judges are up for retention?

Alan O. Forst, Mark W. Klingensmith, Johnathan D. Lott, Shannon K. Shaw and Caroline Cahill Shepherd.

The general election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Early voting and mail-ballot deadlines vary by state; check your state or county election office.

Florida 4th District Court of Appeal retention

Retention election · November 3, 2026 · Voters in this appeals court's counties

What this office does

A judge on a state appeals court. Reviews trial-court decisions for legal errors and decides most appeals; only some cases go on to the state supreme court. A retention vote asks only whether the judge should stay.

Judges on the ballot

A separate Yes/No vote on each judge: YES keeps them on the court for another term.

Also on Florida ballots

All Florida races and measures →

Quick answers

What is a retention vote?: Instead of choosing between candidates, you vote YES or NO on whether each judge stays on the court for another term. A judge who doesn't get enough YES votes (a simple majority in most states) is removed, and the seat is filled by appointment.
Which judges are up for retention?: Alan O. Forst, Mark W. Klingensmith, Johnathan D. Lott, Shannon K. Shaw and Caroline Cahill Shepherd.
When is the vote?: The general election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Early voting and mail-ballot deadlines vary by state; check your state or county election office.

Not sure how to decide? Read our nonpartisan guide to the Florida ballot.