Your post indicates that you believe a Florida judge is required to recuse himself upon request. That is incorrect, with good reason - do you really think it is a good idea for any litigant to be able to get a new judge just by asking?
The legislature thought it was a good idea or it wouldn't be in the statutes. It really doesn't matter what I think.
Here in California, a judge must recuse himself at first request.. the litigant must then accept the 2nd one appointed to them.