Donald Trump endorses Jimmy Patronis for AG after Matt Gaetz withdraws: 'Run, Jimmy, run'

WASHINGTON, DC: President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis as his pick for Congress after Matt Gaetz’s withdrawal from consideration for attorney general.

Patronis, a prominent figure in Florida politics, now appears poised to enter the race for Florida's 1st Congressional District following Trump’s public endorsement.

The congressional seat became vacant after Gaetz, initially nominated for attorney general by Trump, announced his resignation from the position but later withdrew from the race, Politico reported. 

On Friday, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the primary election for Gaetz’s seat will be on January 28 and the special election on April 1. 

Donald Trump endorses 'friend' Jimmy Patronis for Congress

On Truth Social, Donald Trump shared his enthusiastic support for Jimmy Patronis, highlighting his accomplishments and urging him to run.

“Jimmy Patronis, Chief Financial Officer for the Great State of Florida, has done a tremendous job as CFO, where he also serves as the State’s Fire Marshall, and as an important member of the Florida Cabinet," Trump wrote on the social media platform.

He further hinted at Patronis’ potential campaign, stating, "I hear that Jimmy is now considering launching a Campaign for Congress in Florida's 1st Congressional District!"

Praising Patronis’ dedication further Trump added, "A fourth generation Floridian from the beautiful Panhandle, and owner of an iconic seafood restaurant, Jimmy has been a wonderful friend to me, and to MAGA."

"As your next Congressman, Jimmy would work tirelessly alongside of me to Grow our Economy, Secure our Border, Stop Migrant Crime, Strengthen our Incredible Military/Vets, Restore American Energy DOMINANCE, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment," he continued.

Trump concluded his post by fully endorsing Patronis, writing, “Should he decide to enter this Race, Jimmy Patronis has my Complete and Total Endorsement. RUN, JIMMY, RUN!”

Jimmy Patronis responds to Donald Trump’s encouragement

Jimmy Patronis previously hinted at his interest in running for the congressional seat, writing on X (formerly Twitter) on November 19, “We’ve got an historic opportunity to fight the swamp, end lawfare and return power back into the hands of Americans.”

After Trump’s endorsement, Patronis appeared more convinced of his candidacy. On November 25, he posted, “Put me to work, Mr. President! @realDonaldTrump I am here to serve.”

Matt Gaetz withdraws from attorney general race

Matt Gaetz’s resignation from Congress initially came as he was nominated by Donald Trump for the attorney general role.

However, on November 21, Gaetz announced his withdrawal from the nomination, citing concerns about the distraction his confirmation process might create.

"I had excellent meetings with Senators yesterday. I appreciate their thoughtful feedback - and the incredible support of so many," Gaetz wrote on X.

Acknowledging the challenges, he added, "While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition."

Gaetz ultimately stepped back, stating, "There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I'll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as Attorney General."

He reaffirmed his support for Trump, saying, "Trump's DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1. I remain fully committed to see that Donald J Trump is the most successful President in history.”