Some Polk County voters will cast their ballot in the race for the District 9 seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.

In the 9th Congressional District, Rep. Alan Grayson, D-Orlando, is facing a challenge from Republican Carol Platt, a realtor with several years of experience as a GOP political activist. This is Platt's first run for political office, which Grayson is currently serving his second Congressional term.

An unaffiliated third candidate, Marko Milakovich, is also running for the seat.

The race between the two leading candidates is a sharp contrast in differences, not just in styles but also in politics.

One of the most outspoken liberals in Congress, Grayson advocates for universal health care, expanded Social Security and Medicare, and better schools and transportation in Central Florida.  

Grayson said one of his main priorities is raising the minimum wage, and that he has introduced a bill to raise it to $10.50 per hour (including tipped workers).

Grayson's rhetoric has caused his opponents, including Platt, to call him divisive, but Grayson defends his time in Congress, saying he has been effective as a member of Congress.

"Out of all 435 Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, I passed the most amendments on the Floor of the House last year," he told BayNews9.com, also pointing out that Slate, Business Insider and Time magazine have all praised him for being effective and productive.

Platt said that, if she's elected, she plans to bring "leadership and calm resolve" to her term in Congress.  Her priorities include bringing sustainable growth to Central Florida's communities through tax reform and prioritized budgeting with a focus on young entrepreneurs.

She also says protecting and fighting for the rights of veterans are another top priority for her.

"I will fight for our veterans like any good employer should fight for their loyal employees," she said. "If you put your life on the line for our protection, then we will take care of you."

Platt cites her background in business, agriculture and education in Orange, Polk and Osceola counties as one of her biggest strengths, as it gives her empathy and understanding for the residents of the 9th Congressional District.

The 9th Congressional District includes Poinciana, Haines City and northeastern Polk County, along with parts of Osceola and Orange counties. Polk County has 43,933 voters in the 9th Congressional District, which comprises 10 percent of the entire district.