Politics
NEW: Trump Issues Endorsement For Matt Gaetz’s Vacated House Seat
President-elect Donald Trump has announced his endorsement of Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, Jimmy Patronis, as a potential candidate for the congressional seat vacated by former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL).
In a post on his social media platform Monday morning, Trump praised Patronis for his work as Florida’s CFO and State Fire Marshal. “Jimmy has been a wonderful friend to me, and to MAGA,” Trump wrote. “As your next Congressman, Jimmy would work tirelessly alongside of me to Grow our Economy, Secure our Border, Stop Migrant Crime, Strengthen our Incredible Military/Vets, Restore American Energy DOMINANCE, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment.”
Patronis, a fourth-generation Floridian from the Panhandle, has served as Florida’s CFO since 2017. Known for his business acumen and roots in the community, he has been a vocal supporter of Trump’s policies, particularly on issues like border security and energy independence. As CFO, Patronis also plays a key role in overseeing the state’s finances and responding to natural disasters, such as hurricanes.
“RUN, JIMMY, RUN!” Trump concluded in his post.
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On Monday, Patronis announced his resignation from his Cabinet role, which will take effect on March 31. In his resignation letter addressed to Gov. Ron DeSantis and Byrd, Patronis reflected on his achievements, stating, “Together, we have worked with the Florida Legislature to provide benefits for mental health and cancer for Florida’s first responders. They are always there when we need them, and in return, we showed up for them in their time of need.” His departure paves the way for Gov. DeSantis to appoint a successor who will serve out the last two years of the chief financial officer’s term.
“Put me to work, Mr. President! @realDonaldTrump I am here to serve. 🫡” Patronis replied on X on Monday.
Put me to work, Mr. President! @realDonaldTrump I am here to serve. 🫡 https://t.co/5HcxBtJAmk
— Jimmy Patronis (@JimmyPatronis) November 25, 2024
The seat in Florida’s 1st Congressional District became vacant after Gaetz withdrew his bid for attorney general following his resignation from Congress amid controversies. Gaetz had faced scrutiny over his conduct, including a Department of Justice investigation as part of a sex trafficking probe. While no charges were filed and Gaetz was never charged with a crime, the investigation and mounting criticism led Gaetz to step away, stating he did not want to be a “distraction.”
Patronis becomes the clear frontrunner with Trump’s endorsement. The endorsement also adds pressure on Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, a frequent political rival of Trump. DeSantis has yet to weigh in on the race, but Trump’s backing of Patronis could signal a broader effort to influence appointments and elections in Florida as Trump prepares to return to the White House.
Officials eyeing a bid in the special election to succeed Gaetz must submit their resign-to-run letters by Monday if they wish to retain their current positions during the campaign. Already, two state legislators and one local elected official have announced their intentions to enter the race.
Patronis’ congressional bid requires DeSantis to appoint his replacement until the 2026 elections. State Sen. Joe Gruters, a Trump ally at odds with DeSantis, is campaigning for the role, raising questions about whether DeSantis will choose a contender capable of challenging Gruters.
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