5 sources·Politics

Republican Jimmy Patronis Wins Special Election in Florida's 1st Congressional District

Jimmy Patronis secures victory for Florida's 1st Congressional District, overcoming a substantial fundraising deficit against Democrat Gay Valimont in a Trump-supported race.

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National Democrats had pointed to their massive fundraising hauls in the conservative oasis of Florida as a sign voters are dissatisfied with the Republican president’s second term.
Who is Jimmy Patronis? Florida's chief financial officer wins election to replace Matt Gaetz
Associated Press·18d
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Center
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Patronis’s victory is the second of the evening with Republican Randy Fine winning in Florida’s 6th District to succeed Mike Waltz, who joined the Trump administration.
Jimmy Patronis wins Florida House seat vacated by Matt Gaetz - Washington Examiner
Washington Examiner·18d
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The Republicans had an advantage in Patronis' race, but Valimont managed to significantly outraise her opponent, which flashed some warning signs.
Former DeSantis official defeats Dem for Matt Gaetz's House seat
FOX News·18d
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Leans Right
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The Republican's victory provides a bit of cushion to House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., who is already working with a razor-thin majority in the House and could hardly afford losing a seat.
Republican Jimmy Patronis wins election for Matt Gaetz’s vacated House seat in Florida
MSNBC·18d
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Updated: Apr 2nd, 2025, 12:06 AM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

Republican Jimmy Patronis won the special election for Florida's 1st Congressional District, succeeding former Rep. Matt Gaetz. Patronis, endorsed by Trump, defeated Democrat Gay Valimont by a 57% to 42% margin. Despite Valimont significantly outperforming expectations by raising $6.4 million, the district's strong Republican lean, influenced by Trump's support, was decisive. This election reflects ongoing challenges for Republicans as they navigate voter sentiment ahead of the 2026 midterms.

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Republican Jimmy Patronis, endorsed by Trump, won the special election for Florida’s 1st Congressional District, a traditionally conservative area.
Despite the heavy GOP advantage in the district, Democrats highlighted Gay Valimont's significant fundraising and performance as potential warning signs for Republicans.
Patronis's victory might provide temporary relief to the Republican majority in the House, but underlying voter discontent with Trump's policies remains a concern.

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