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In a significant political development, former Escambia County Commissioner Gene Valentino has officially begun his campaign for the congressional position previously held by retired Representative Matt Gaetz of Florida.
The announcement came shortly after President-elect Donald Trump endorsed another Republican candidate, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis.
"I PROMISED MY GRANDFATHER I WOULD SERVE OUR COUNTRY ONE DAY. THIS IS WHAT I HAVE TO DO NOW." @GeneValentino details why he is running for Congress, hoping to fill Matt Gaetz's seat. @michellebackus_ @EmilyRoseFinn @thebeaudavidson @KDORR_USA pic.twitter.com/U4ZhzlZHA1
— Real America's Voice (RAV) (@RealAmVoice) November 27, 2024
Speaking to Newsmax, Valentino emphasized his dedication to supporting Trump, stating, “Look, I’m a team player, and if he comes into my house, he’ll see my wife has inundated our property with Trump paraphernalia all over the place. Mr. Trump’s going to have a fine friend, and let’s just say I understand the dilemma he’s in trying to make everybody happy.”
Valentino expressed his commitment to protecting the president-elect, adding, “But I do know one thing, he needs a team around him that’s going to protect him.”
The former commissioner explained his motivation for pursuing the Florida panhandle seat, citing concerns about constituent representation. He emphasized his intention to support Trump in unprecedented ways, stating, “We’re going for this job not only to support Donald Trump, but to do so in a way that he hasn’t experienced up until now.”
Valentino drew parallels between himself and his predecessor, declaring, “Matt Gaetz fell on the sword for Donald Trump. And if you like what he did for Donald Trump, you’ll love Gene Valentino because Mr. Trump needs his backside protected, and he’s going to get it with this candidate right here. We’re anxious to help him push his agenda forward.”
