Gov. DeSantis latest to not support Rep. Mills ahead of Florida primary
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Gov DeSantis latest to not support Mills in Florida Primary Race
Provpnadvice.com – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has officially joined other prominent Republicans in withholding his endorsement of Representative Cory Mills ahead of the state’s upcoming primary election. During a Friday press conference, DeSantis made his position clear when asked about the congressional race. The governor confirmed that he has not endorsed Mills and does not currently support the congressman’s bid for reelection in Florida’s 7th Congressional District. This announcement marks another significant development in the political landscape of central Florida.
Building Momentum Against Mills
The governor’s decision adds to a growing list of Republican voices in Florida who have distanced themselves from Mills. Several members of the state’s congressional delegation have publicly signaled their lack of support for the representative. Earlier this month, Representatives Anna Paulina Luna and Mike Haridopolos both endorsed Ryan Elijah, a former local television news anchor challenging Mills in the primary race. The two representatives issued a joint statement praising Elijah as a dedicated patriot and freedom fighter.
“We need leaders in Congress who serve with integrity, energy, and an unwavering commitment to the people who sent them there. Ryan Elijah is that leader,” they wrote in their statement.
This is not the first instance of public disagreement between DeSantis and Mills. The two politicians have a history of competing for influence within Florida’s Republican Party. During the 2024 presidential election cycle, Mills threw his support behind President Donald Trump rather than backing the governor’s own presidential ambitions. The rivalry continued when DeSantis selected Senator Ashley Moody to fill the Senate seat vacated by Marco Rubio, choosing Moody over Mills for the prestigious position.
Meanwhile, the House Ethics Committee continues its investigation into multiple allegations against Mills. The ethics probe encompasses several serious matters, including accusations of dating violence and potential violations of campaign finance regulations. Throughout this process, Mills has consistently denied all accusations leveled against him, maintaining his innocence in the face of mounting scrutiny. President Trump initially endorsed Mills in February, but the president has not renewed that support since this investigation began.
What This Means for the Florida Primary
The 7th Congressional District covers portions of Seminole and Volusia Counties in central Florida, an area that has become increasingly competitive in recent election cycles. Political analysts note that the district’s shifting demographics and evolving voter priorities have made it a bellwether for Republican fortunes in the state. Mills’s campaign faces a challenging path forward as multiple prominent Republicans signal their lack of enthusiasm for his candidacy.
The combination of ethics investigation concerns and the withdrawal of high-profile endorsements has created headwinds for the congressman as he prepares for what could be a difficult primary contest. The outcome of this race will likely have implications for both Mills’s political future and the broader dynamics within Florida’s Republican Party.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Florida Republican primary? The primary election for Florida’s congressional districts is scheduled for August 20, 2024.
Who is Ryan Elijah? Ryan Elijah is a former local television news anchor from central Florida who is challenging Representative Cory Mills in the Republican primary for Florida’s 7th Congressional District.
What are the main allegations against Mills? The House Ethics Committee is investigating multiple allegations including accusations of dating violence and potential violations of campaign finance regulations.
Has President Trump endorsed anyone else in Florida? Yes, President Trump has reposted his endorsements for several other Florida campaigns in the days leading up to the state’s Republican primary, though he has not renewed his earlier endorsement of Mills.
Why is this primary considered significant? The 7th Congressional District covers portions of Seminole and Volusia Counties and has become increasingly competitive, making it a bellwether for Republican fortunes in the state.
