Donald Trump endorses Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, Jimmy Patronis, to run for Congress, striking a surprising political development in Florida.
At a Glance
- Trump endorses Jimmy Patronis for the U.S. House seat vacated by Matt Gaetz.
- Matt Gaetz was nominated for Attorney General but withdrew amid investigations.
- Lara Trump eyes Marco Rubio’s Senate seat amid political shifts in Florida.
- Patronis served as Florida’s CFO since 2017 under Rick Scott’s appointment.
Trump’s Endorsement of Patronis
Donald Trump has thrown his support behind Jimmy Patronis, Florida’s current Chief Financial Officer, for a U.S. House seat recently vacated by Matt Gaetz. The endorsement follows Gaetz’s nomination for the role of Attorney General in the forthcoming Trump administration. With Trump’s backing, Patronis finds himself in a favorable position to launch a robust campaign, aligning his legislative agenda with the upcoming administration’s goals on Capitol Hill.
The endorsement, announced on social media, highlights Trump’s continued influence in the political landscape of Florida. Despite Patronis not initially supporting Trump during the primary phase, they have maintained a respectful relationship, leading to this crucial endorsement. Trump’s vote of confidence provides Patronis with a significant boost as he prepares for the special election.
JUST IN: Donald Trump endorsed Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis for Florida's 1st Congressional District seat in a post to Truth Social on Monday. https://t.co/qdD1nvMzDf
— First Coast News (@FCN2go) November 25, 2024
Gaetz’s Unsuccessful Bid and Patronis’ Plans
Matt Gaetz, previously nominated for Attorney General, withdrew from consideration following ongoing investigations into his conduct. The Department of Justice noted it would not bring criminal charges against Gaetz, but the cloud surrounding him remains a contentious point. Simultaneously, Jimmy Patronis has made public his readiness to enter the congressional race, buoyed by Trump’s endorsement, signaling a strong start to his campaign.
As Patronis steps into this new political chapter, the decision has prompted additional political maneuvering within Florida. Governor Ron DeSantis will need to appoint a new Chief Financial Officer to serve until the 2026 elections should Patronis succeed in his bid for Congress. The state’s political dynamics continue to evolve, with significant implications for Florida’s governance.
Trump Backs Jimmy Patronis For Gaetz Seat; Michelle Salzman Not Running https://t.co/l9vtweUHZK pic.twitter.com/DIPTLDhzG5
— NorthEscambia.com (@northescambia) November 25, 2024
Broader Political Implications in Florida
The race for Gaetz’s vacated seat triggers a reshuffle in Florida politics, underscoring Trump’s influence. State Senator Joe Gruters, noted Trump ally, declared his candidacy for Chief Financial Officer. Additionally, Lara Trump is considering running for Marco Rubio’s Senate seat, with Rubio potentially becoming Secretary of State in Trump’s administration. These moves mark critical strategies shaping the state’s political future.
As Florida’s Chief Financial Officer since 2017, Patronis’ tenure has been marked by robust fiscal management and adherence to conservative principles. His appointment by then-Governor Rick Scott laid the groundwork for his political journey, culminating in this potential congressional candidacy. Patronis expresses both readiness and enthusiasm to represent his constituents at the federal level, aligning closely with Trump’s administration policies.
Sources
1. Trump Endorses Florida CFO Patronis for Gaetz’s House Seat
2. Trump backs Florida’s chief financial officer as successor to Gaetz in Congress
