Sarasota Hospital Board

All four candidates who ran on a "medical freedom" slate lost to their Republican opponents, who include two incumbent board members. They'll now face four Democrats in November.

Only Republican races are on the slate next week, with an eye on "medical freedom" candidates. If they gain a majority after the November general election, some hospital policies could change.

Eight Republicans are competing in a closed primary on Aug. 20. Six attended the League of Women Voters forum, which drew more than 100 attendees.

Interest in the public hospital board has grown since the COVID-19 pandemic spurred a "medical freedom" movement. The July 11 forum features Republican candidates, the only ones competing in the August primary.