Overview
- Sydney Gruters, who launched her campaign Thursday, enters the open race to replace retiring Rep. Vern Buchanan with President Donald Trump’s public pledge of a “Complete and Total” endorsement.
- She begins with support from Maggie’s List, and she is pitching lower costs for families, seniors, and veterans as her opening message to voters.
- Gruters stepped down Wednesday from leading the New College Foundation and previously worked for Buchanan and Rep. Greg Steube, with a stint as USDA rural development director for Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- The Republican field includes Navy veteran Ed Pope and former New College trustee Eddie Speir, with candidates able to qualify only during a June 8–12 filing window for the Aug. 18 primary ballot.
- The district favored Republicans in 2024, and lawmakers may redraw its lines later this month, which could change who votes and how campaigns target the race.