Florida’s 1st Congressional District Republican primary heats up as ten candidates vie to replace Matt Gaetz, with Trump’s endorsement playing a crucial role.Trump endorses Jimmy Patronis, making him a frontrunner in the crowded 10-candidate field. Republican stronghold districts historically support GOP presidential candidates. Concurrent primary in 6th District reflects preparations following Mike Waltz’s appointment as Trump’s national security adviser
A Crowded Field in Florida’s First District
The Republican primary for Florida’s 1st Congressional District is in full swing, with voters in Escambia, Okaloosa, and Santa Rosa counties heading to the polls. This special election, triggered by Matt Gaetz’s resignation, has drawn a field of ten Republican candidates eager to represent this conservative stronghold in Congress.
Among the contenders, Jimmy Patronis has emerged as a clear favorite, bolstered by high-profile endorsements from former President Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Other notable candidates include state Rep. Dr. Joel Rudman and retired Navy Commander Aaron Dimmock, who has received backing from former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
Northwest Florida – don’t forget to get out and VOTE TOMORROW for Jimmy Patronis!
We need conservative fighters in Congress that stand for law and order and protecting family values. I look forward to working with my friend, @JimmyPatronis in Washington 🇺🇸 https://t.co/hsF1vrSEFe
— Ashley Moody (@AshleyMoodyFL) January 28, 2025
Trump’s Influence on the Race
The former president’s endorsement has significantly shaped the primary landscape. Trump took to his Truth Social platform to praise Patronis, highlighting the candidate’s commitment to conservative values and policy priorities.
“A fourth-generation Floridian from the beautiful Panhandle and owner of an iconic seafood restaurant, Jimmy has been a wonderful friend to me and to MAGA.” – Trump
Trump’s endorsement carries significant weight in this district, which has consistently supported Republican presidential candidates. The former president’s influence extends beyond the 1st District, as he has also endorsed Randy Fine in the concurrent 6th District primary.
The Road to April 1st
The general election for both Florida’s 1st and 6th Congressional Districts is slated for April 1, 2025. In the 1st District, the Republican primary winner will face Democrat Gay Valimont, who was unopposed in her party’s primary. The outcome of these races could have implications for the balance of power in Congress, where Republicans currently hold a narrow two-vote advantage.
Voter turnout will be crucial in determining the primary winners. In previous elections, Republican turnout in the 1st District has been around 34%. As of Friday morning before the primary, over 11,000 ballots had already been cast in the 1st District Republican primary.
Looking Ahead
As the primary unfolds, all eyes are on Florida’s 1st Congressional District. The race not only determines who will fill Matt Gaetz’s vacant seat but also serves as a barometer for the strength of Trump’s endorsement and the direction of the Republican Party in a key conservative stronghold.
“The Associated Press does not make projections and will declare a winner only when it’s determined there is no scenario that would allow the trailing candidates to close the gap.” Associated Press
