Conservative Podcaster Mark Kaye Announces Florida Congressional Run

Mark Kaye, a former Jacksonville radio host and conservative podcaster, has announced his candidacy for Congress in Florida's 5th Congressional District, aiming to unseat incumbent Republican Rep. John Rutherford in the 2026 GOP primary. Kaye criticizes both Democrats and Republicans, accusing them of neglecting their constituents, and specifically targets Rutherford for being an absentee and non-transparent congressman. He positions himself as a fierce advocate for free speech, small businesses, and conservative voices, pledging to fight against Big Tech censorship. Kaye has gained attention for his outspoken style and previously faced controversy after sharing AI-generated images of former President Trump aimed at encouraging Black voters. Rutherford, a former Jacksonville sheriff endorsed by President Trump in 2024, has held the congressional seat since 2016, with the district recently redrawn and renamed. Kaye emphasizes his intent to bring direct and transparent representation to Washington, contrasting himself with what he describes as the complacency of the current incumbent.