Florida’s Patronis Pledges to Promote Trump’s Agenda if Elected to Gaetz’s Former House Seat
Florida’s chief financial officer is among the 11 Republicans who have declared their candidacies.
Florida’s chief financial officer and fire marshal stated that if he secures victory in the forthcoming special election to succeed former Rep. Matt Gaetz in Congress, he will champion the interests of President-elect Donald Trump’s supporters.
“Matt Gaetz was a dedicated ally of President Trump,” CFO Jimmy Patronis told The Epoch Times on Dec. 12. ”I’m a dedicated ally of President Trump as well. I would not have earned his endorsement without his trust in my pursuit of this.”
When asked to draw comparisons with Gaetz, Patronis remarked: “I will remain just as passionate about the same issues and challenge the absurdities of Washington.”
If he wins, Patronis will represent Florida’s First Congressional District, which is currently vacant.
He outlined his priorities, which include reducing the deficit, constructing the border wall, halting fentanyl smuggling, ensuring a safe environment for American children, lowering living costs, and renewing the nation’s commitment to veterans and active service members.
Patronis is among several Republicans who have declared candidacies, noting that part of his motivation to run stemmed from Trump’s encouragement.
Related Stories
“When President Trump invites you to run for Congress, you don’t turn it down,” he quipped.
He mentioned that he was also motivated by the assassination attempts on Trump and the recent election outcomes.
“This transcends Republican, Democratic, or independent lines,” he asserted. “It’s about the collective desire to steer America back on course. I’m inspired. I’m eager. I’m ready for the challenge. I’m not going to Washington to make friends.”
The field of GOP candidates has narrowed to eleven, as some initial contenders withdrew upon hearing of Trump’s choice.
“Jimmy has the endorsement of our party’s leader, and that should be sufficient for us to rally behind him.”
Patronis remarked that the withdrawals illustrated the respect Trump commands and expressed profound respect for his fellow candidates who chose to support him.
Among the remaining candidates are several veterans, and Florida’s First Congressional District—located in the panhandle and encompassing Pensacola and five military installations—has strong ties to the armed forces.
Patronis expressed confidence in his capacity to appeal to veteran voters and understand their needs.
“I’ve told them, what matters to you, matters to me, and many veterans have reached out to share their concerns,” he explained. “I’ve said, your issues are my issues.”
Key concerns include care for injured veterans and enhancing VA clinics and hospitals. Patronis is also committed to directing more funds toward the restoration of Tyndall Air Force Base, which was devastated by Hurricane Michael in 2018.
He will continue in his current role until April, maintaining the efforts he has undertaken statewide regarding hurricane recovery.
“We will keep providing our insurance villages, consumer services, and fraud units, because there are still numerous insurance claims that require attention,” he noted. “These efforts will continue despite my departure.”
He has endorsed Joe Gruters as his successor as CFO, with Trump also backing Gruters.
“I’ve collaborated with Joe since 2010,” Patronis remarked. “I’m a strong supporter of his. He’s a highly capable legislator, a skilled certified public accountant, and understands how to advocate for sound conservative policies while also recognizing the financial needs of our state.”
When asked what he would miss most about his current role, Patronis said it would be the opportunity to work closely with first responders, particularly during hurricane season.
Gaetz was reelected in November but resigned shortly thereafter following Trump’s nomination of him for U.S. attorney general. He later withdrew when it seemed his nomination faced defeat in the Senate.
Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd announced the schedule for the special election on Nov. 22, following Gov. Ron DeSantis’s order after Gaetz’s resignation.
The candidate qualification deadline was set for noon on Dec. 6, and the primary election is slated for Jan. 28, with early voting from Jan. 18 to Jan. 25 and certification by Feb. 11. The special election will occur on April 1.
The 119th Congress is set to be sworn in on Jan. 3.
