Claim to fame: Remember the 'hanging chads' controversy in the 2000 election? It happened here. Partial failure of ballot machinery meant to indicate whom a voter had backed led to a recount drama that was ultimately settled by the Supreme Court in Mr George W. Bush's favour.

Population: 18.3 million

2004 result: Voted for Republican George W. Bush (52.1%)

Current trend: A toss-up (Barack Obama 48.4%, John McCain 45.1%)

Electoral votes: 27

SOURCE: REALCLEARPOLITICS.COM

Toothy brigade: One of the party faithful helping Mr McCain retain Florida at the Republican national convention in St Paul, Minnesota, last month. The alligator is an unofficial symbol of Florida state. -- PHOTO: REUTERS