Jimmy Patronis pushes for gold and silver as legal tender in Florida

In the lead-up to the special election to replace former Representative Matt Gaetz in Florida's 1st Congressional District, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, backed by President Donald Trump, announced his candidacy. He expressed a commitment to support Trump's agenda, criticizing what he sees as the pervasive influence of 'wokeness' in government and society, which he believes undermines common sense in America. Patronis has indicated that, if successful in the election, he would like to explore joining the House Freedom Caucus, showcasing an interest in aligning with conservative policies that prioritize limited government control over individual freedoms. Additionally, Patronis is advocating for Florida to adopt gold and silver as legal tender, believing that these assets have been reliable currency for centuries. He plans to initiate a study to assess the feasibility of implementing this measure, proposing that if accepted, it would empower Floridians economically. In an interview, he affirmed his belief that residents in District 1 manage their finances better than the federal government, highlighting his stance on economic autonomy and local governance. The special election is set to occur on April 1, and prior to that, Patronis must navigate the Republican primary to secure his position as the party nominee. His campaign has received endorsements not only from Trump but also from other prominent House leaders, indicating a strong backing for his platform and vision for Florida.