Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, Jimmy Patronis, announces his resignation to pursue a campaign for Florida’s 1st Congressional District seat, recently vacated by Rep. Matt Gaetz. After nearly eight years in office as CFO, Patronis steps down, declaring his intent to run in a special election for the House seat, following public encouragement from President-elect Donald Trump.
Patronis submits his resignation in a formal letter to Governor Ron DeSantis, thanking the governor and Floridians for the opportunity to serve in his role. As CFO, Patronis has been responsible for overseeing the state’s finances, managing insurance regulations, and protecting consumer interests. His tenure has been marked by initiatives aimed at combating fraud, streamlining financial operations, and strengthening Florida’s economy.
The decision to run for Congress comes after weeks of speculation, following Gaetz’s announcement of his resignation to take on a new role in Trump’s incoming administration. President-elect Trump’s endorsement of Patronis as the ideal candidate to represent the district adds significant momentum to Patronis’s campaign. Trump praises Patronis for his strong leadership and commitment to conservative values, urging voters in the district to rally behind him.
Patronis is expected to run on a platform emphasizing economic growth, fiscal responsibility, and support for Trump’s legislative agenda. He highlights his record as CFO, including efforts to attract businesses to Florida, manage disaster recovery funds effectively, and hold insurance companies accountable for unfair practices. His campaign is also likely to emphasize his ties to the Panhandle region and his deep understanding of the local issues facing the 1st Congressional District.
The special election for the district, which includes a large portion of Florida’s Panhandle, is set to draw national attention as Republicans aim to retain the seat in a critical stronghold. Patronis is expected to face competition from other Republican candidates, but his high-profile endorsements and established presence in Florida politics may give him an edge.
As Patronis transitions from his role as CFO to focus on his congressional campaign, Governor DeSantis will appoint an interim CFO to manage the office until a permanent successor is elected. The governor’s decision is anticipated to be announced in the coming days.
Patronis’s announcement marks a significant shift in Florida’s political landscape, with implications for the state’s financial leadership and the upcoming special election. Voters in the district will soon weigh Patronis’s record and vision against other contenders as the race unfolds.
