Republican Ed Brodsky was leading Democrat John Torraco to be the next state's attorney for the 12th Judicial District.

With partial returns, Brodsky, currently the chief deputy state's attorney, had 55.2 percent, and Torraco, a Sarasota lawyer, had 44.8percent.

The winner will replace Earl Moreland, who is retiring.

The 12th Judicial District is comprised of Manatee, Sarasota and Desoto counties.