Gaetz resigned from Congress in 2024.
Former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) says he might launch a gubernatorial bid.
Gaetz, 42, stepped down from the U.S. Home of Representatives in 2024 after President-elect Donald Trump chosen him to be U.S. lawyer common. With key senators opposing Gaetz’s nomination, the previous congressman determined to withdraw from consideration earlier than Trump was inaugurated.
Trump has since picked Pam Bondi, a former Florida lawyer common, to go the U.S. Division of Justice.
Now, he’s floated launching a bid to develop into Florida’s subsequent governor, in what may very well be a aggressive race to succeed term-limited Gov. Ron DeSantis.
“I’ve a compelling imaginative and prescient for the state,” Gaetz informed the Tampa Bay Occasions. “I perceive tips on how to repair the insurance coverage downside, and it’s to not hand the keys to the state over to the insurance coverage trade. If I run, I might be essentially the most pro-consumer candidate on the Republican aspect.”
Gaetz has constantly denied wrongdoing and was by no means charged with a criminal offense.
“These lies have been informed about me for years,” he informed the Tampa Bay Occasions. “They’ve by no means affected my means to win elections.”
Different attainable Florida gubernatorial candidates for the 2026 race embody Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) and Miami Mayor Francis Suarez. DeSantis has mentioned his spouse, Casey DeSantis, isn’t keen on working for governor.
