TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — In recent special elections to fill the vacancies left by former Florida Representatives Matt Gaetz and Mike Waltz, candidates Jimmy Patronis and Randy Fine, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, secured victory in their respective Republican primaries. These achievements took place in districts that traditionally align with conservative values.
As the general election approaches on April 1, Republicans are anticipated to retain these congressional seats, which would enhance their slim majority in the U.S. House, furthering their alignment with Trump’s political objectives.
In the First District special election designated to succeed Gaetz, Patronis successfully defeated former state Representative Joel Rudman, who recently garnered attention for his opposition to mask mandates during the COVID-19 crisis. Patronis now prepares to face Gay Valimont, who ran unopposed for the Democratic nomination and will challenge him for the northwest Florida position.
Growing up in Panama City, Patronis has been a notable figure in Florida politics for many years, previously serving in the state House and coming from a family recognized for their local seafood restaurant.
The vacancy arose in the First District when Gaetz decided against seeking re-election while facing allegations of sexual misconduct, which contributed to his withdrawal from consideration for Trump’s attorney general nomination.
In the 6th Congressional District contest to replace Waltz, Fine triumphed over two other Republican contenders. This district encompasses Daytona Beach and areas situated south of Jacksonville. Fine, known for his strong advocacy for Israel and efforts aimed at limiting LGBTQ+ rights, previously aligned closely with Governor Ron DeSantis before their relationship deteriorated due to Fine’s claims that DeSantis was insufficiently addressing antisemitism.
“This victory isn’t mine. It is Donald Trump’s,” Fine stated Tuesday evening during a special session focusing on immigration in Tallahassee. “This marks my first electoral win since November 5, and Republicans have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to his agenda. I assure him — and all voters — that no one will advocate for his success more devotedly than I will. I am prepared to take action.”
Fine’s entrance to the legislative chamber on Tuesday night prompted applause from state representatives who were discussing the proposed immigration bill.
Fine will now advance to the general election where he will face Democrat Josh Weil, an Orlando-based public school educator. This opening in the 6th District occurred when Waltz was appointed by Trump to serve as his national security adviser.
Both candidates, Patronis and Fine, have encountered criticism for not residing in the districts they aspire to represent. Political scientist Aubrey Jewett from the University of Central Florida pointed out that there exists a possibility for Democrats to increase their vote margins in a scenario of low turnout, noting recent patterns in other special elections.
“Democrats may have a shot at securing Waltz’s seat, although it would require an extraordinary effort,” Jewett remarked. “For Gaetz’s seat, however, it would take much more than just a minor miracle — it would need a significant one.”
