By Jasper Ward (Reuters) – Former U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz has expressed his contemplation of a potential gubernatorial run in 2026 in his home state of Florida. “I have a compelling vision for the state,” Gaetz conveyed to the Tampa Bay Times. “I understand how to address the insurance issue, and it does not involve merely ceding control to the insurance industry. If I decide to enter the race, I aim to be the most pro-consumer candidate among Republican contenders.”
The three-term congressman, who formerly represented Florida, tendered his resignation in November subsequent to being nominated by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for the position of U.S. attorney general. However, Gaetz withdrew his consideration for the role amid a swirl of controversy.
Gaetz had been the subject of an inquiry by the House Ethics Committee regarding allegations of illicit drug utilization and engaging in relations with a 17-year-old individual. While refuting any wrongdoing, the committee’s findings last month disclosed that Gaetz had disbursed substantial sums of money to females for substances and intimate encounters.
Notably, Florida imposes a restriction of two consecutive four-year terms for the governorship. Consequently, the state will witness a gubernatorial election in 2026 upon the departure of the incumbent Ron DeSantis, who is currently serving his second term in office.
(Reporting by Jasper Ward; Editing by Edwina Gibbs)
