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Jim Schwartzel wins Florida GOP primary for Congress despite President Trump's endorsement of Catalina Lauf

Jim Schwartzel won the Republican primary for Florida’s 19th Congressional District, securing the nomination to succeed Rep. Byron Donalds. The victory was notable because President Trump endorsed his opponent, Catalina Lauf, just days before the election. While 97% of the candidates endorsed by the administration have won their primaries this year, Schwartzel bucked the trend by highlighting his deep ties to the state, contrasting with Lauf’s status as a "blue state refugee." Schwartzel’s win comes during a period of intense internal competition within the Florida GOP. The state party is preparing for a new era following the exit of Gov. Ron DeSantis, who declined to endorse a successor. In the gubernatorial race, Rep. Byron Donalds remains the frontrunner, though he faces challenges from rivals like James Fishback. The primary serves as a critical test of party unity as Republicans prepare for the November general election, with the administration's influence remaining a significant factor in the primary season.

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