Older Voters Help Nelson Hold Senate Seat From Florida

Democratic Senator Bill Nelson of Florida will keep his job after fighting off a challenge from Republican Congressman Connie Mack, with the incumbent winning with strong support from age 50-plus voters.

Floridians aged 50-64 - who comprised 28 percent of the vote - favored Nelson over Mack by 55-43 percent, according to exit polls. People 65 and older, 25 percent of the Sunshine State turnout, also went for Nelson, though by a narrower, 51-47 percent margin.

The two Senate candidates engaged in a heated battle for the Senate seat, with health care and retirement key issues in the race.

Exit polls are a snapshot of a small portion of the electorate, and the final results may differ considerably. -Susan Milligan