Get Ready For MORE Republican Florida Wins As Two Primaries Begin

Florida’s 1st and 6th Congressional Districts are gearing up for crucial Republican primaries, with President Donald Trump’s endorsements playing a significant role in shaping the races.

Florida is about to become a deeper red state.

At a Glance

  • Special primaries are being held in Florida’s 1st and 6th Congressional Districts to fill vacancies left by Matt Gaetz and Mike Waltz.
  • President Donald Trump has endorsed Jimmy Patronis in the 1st District and Randy Fine in the 6th District.
  • Both districts have historically strong Republican support, with the 1st District featuring a 10-candidate GOP primary.
  • The general election for both districts is scheduled for April 1, 2025.
  • Republicans currently hold a narrow two-vote advantage in Congress, making these races particularly important.

1st Congressional District: A Crowded Field

The Republican primary in Florida’s 1st Congressional District has attracted significant attention with ten candidates vying for the seat vacated by Matt Gaetz. Polls opened today in Escambia, Okaloosa, and Santa Rosa counties, marking a crucial moment for the region’s conservative voters.

Jimmy Patronis, Florida’s Chief Financial Officer and Fire Marshal, has emerged as the frontrunner, bolstered by endorsements from President Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Trump’s support for Patronis has been particularly enthusiastic, praising his background and commitment to conservative values.

In an endorsement statement, President Donald Trump described Patronis as “A fourth generation Floridian from the beautiful Panhandle, and owner of an iconic seafood restaurant,” adding that he has “been a wonderful friend to me, and to MAGA.”

Other notable candidates in the race include state Rep. Dr. Joel Rudman and retired Navy Commander Aaron Dimmock, who has received backing from former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

6th Congressional District: Trump’s Influence

In Florida’s 6th Congressional District, the Republican primary is equally significant, following Mike Waltz’s appointment to a National Security Advisory role by Trump. The President has thrown his support behind Sen. Randy Fine, describing him as “a highly successful, Harvard educated businessman, and greatly respected State Legislator.”

Fine faces competition from Aaron Baker and Ethan Joarder in the GOP primary. On the Democratic side, Josh Weil and George “Ges” Selmont are competing for their party’s nomination.

These special elections hold particular significance given the current political landscape. Republicans currently maintain a slim two-vote advantage in Congress, with a 217-215 majority. The outcomes of these races could potentially impact the balance of power in the House of Representatives.

Voter turnout will be a crucial factor in determining the results. In previous primaries, Republican turnout was around 34% in the 1st District and 31% in the 6th District. As of Friday morning, over 11,000 ballots had been cast in the 1st District Republican primary and nearly 17,000 in the 6th District.

The general election for both districts is set for April 1, 2025. In the 1st District, the Democratic primary was canceled as only one candidate, Gay Valimont, qualified. This underscores the district’s strong Republican leanings and historical support for conservative candidates.