Come Meet FL-1's Congressional Candidates

December 8, 2024 8:08am

Matt Gaetz resigned from the 118th Congress the day President-Elect Donald Trump nominated him to serve as U.S. Attorney General. Then when it became evident the Senate would not confirm him, he withdrew from the nomination. But back on November 5th, Matt Gaetz was elected to the 119th Congress. That means he could be sworn in on January 3rd if he wanted to be. But he doesn't want it. He's out. Period.

Consequently, Florida's First Congressional District will be without a Representative in Congress until the first week of April. The special election to fill the vacant seat will be held April 1st. The primary for that will be held on January 28th. But only Republicans will participate because Gay Valimont, the sole Democrat candidate, automatically advances to the general election.

Ten candidates have qualified for that Republican primary. In alphabetical order, they are Aaron Dimmock, Kevin Gaffney, Jeff Macey, Greg Merk, John Mills, Jimmy Patronis, Jeff Peacock, Joel Rudman, Michael Dylan Thompson, and Gene Valentino.

Voters will have the opportunity to meet those candidates tomorrow (12/9/24) during the Florida CD-1 Candidate Forum at The Grille House/Emerald on Highway 98 in Navarre (8491 Navarre Parkway) from 11:00am - 3:00pm.

The forum is presented by the Republican Executive Committees of Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa counties. The program will feature candidate speeches, debates, and town hall engagement with voters. I will serve as emcee and moderator.

The event is free and open to the public. It is not necessary to RSVP. Just show up! A buffet and beverage service will be provided. I hope to see you there!