Florida Republican Primaries Aim to Fill Vacancies

Special primaries are underway in Florida's 1st and 6th Congressional Districts to fill vacancies left by former Representatives Matt Gaetz and Mike Waltz. In the 1st District, ten Republicans are competing, with Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis emerging as a frontrunner, backed by Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Other notable candidates include Aaron Dimmock and Joel Rudman, while Democrat Gay Valimont runs unopposed in her primary, seeking to reclaim a seat previously held by Gaetz. In the 6th District, state Senator Randy Fine is favored to replace Waltz, also endorsed by Trump, against challengers Aaron Baker and Ethan Joarder. Both general elections are set for April 1, with Republicans anticipated to maintain control in these conservative strongholds. Gaetz's resignation followed scrutiny over serious allegations, leading to a competitive Republican primary in his district.