Gaetz, Scott Face Challengers in Florida Primaries

Rep. Matt Gaetz has secured victory in his Florida primary against Navy veteran Aaron Dimmock, who was backed by former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Despite a significant advertising campaign against him, Gaetz's popularity in his district and an endorsement from Donald Trump helped him maintain his seat. McCarthy's efforts to retaliate against Gaetz for his role in ousting him as Speaker have yielded mixed results, as only one of his backed candidates succeeded. Meanwhile, Sen. Rick Scott will face former Democratic Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell in November after both won their primaries, with Scott holding a significant fundraising advantage. Democrats have not yet heavily invested in Florida, focusing resources on other battlegrounds, despite seeing the state as a potential pickup opportunity. As primaries unfolded in multiple states, the outcomes could shape the political landscape for the upcoming elections.