House Republican leaders have officially endorsed Florida Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis as the candidate for the 1st Congressional District in the Sunshine State. The endorsements come from prominent figures such as House Speaker Mike Johnson, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, and House Majority Whip Tom Emmer.
Patronis expressed his gratitude for the endorsements on social media, acknowledging the support from the House GOP leaders. Additionally, President-elect Donald Trump had previously encouraged Patronis to run for the position, promising his full endorsement.
Following the resignation of Matt Gaetz from Congress after being nominated by Trump for the position of attorney general, special primary and general elections are scheduled to take place next year to fill the vacant seat in the 1st Congressional District.
Despite Gaetz's re-election prior to his departure, he withdrew himself from consideration for the Cabinet-level post. Notably, Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister, another Trump nominee for the role of administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration, also opted out of the position.
