Gaetz defeats McCarthy in Florida primary

Florida Representative Matt Gaetz has successfully fended off a primary challenge from Aaron Dimmock, a former Navy aviator backed by ex-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Despite McCarthy's significant financial support, totaling $3 million, Gaetz secured approximately 72.5% of the vote in Florida's 1st Congressional District. The primary was marked by a bitter rivalry, stemming from Gaetz's role in McCarthy's ousting as Speaker last year, which has fueled ongoing tensions between the two. The campaign was overshadowed by a House Ethics Committee investigation into Gaetz, which includes allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use. While Gaetz has consistently denied these allegations, the investigation remains active, with the committee expressing difficulties in obtaining information from him. Despite this, Gaetz's strong support base in his district likely contributed to his primary victory, as he has been a prominent figure in Republican politics since 2017. Dimmock, who entered the race late and was supported by PACs linked to McCarthy, conceded defeat, acknowledging the challenges of running against an established politician like Gaetz. In his victory speech, Gaetz criticized McCarthy's focus on personal attacks rather than policy issues, humorously suggesting that McCarthy should invest even more in future challenges. Looking ahead, Gaetz will face Democratic candidate Gay Valimont in the upcoming November election, as he aims to maintain his congressional seat amid ongoing scrutiny and investigations.