Mon Nov 25 21:10:00 UTC 2024: ## Decorated Veteran Jeff Witt Enters Race for Florida’s 1st Congressional District
**NICEVILLE, FL** – Jeff Witt, a decorated F-35 fighter pilot and Afghanistan War veteran, announced Monday his candidacy for Florida’s 1st Congressional District, a seat vacated by former Rep. Matt Gaetz. Witt, a two-time Harvard graduate and current policy advisor on the Trump-Vance Presidential Transition Team, is running as a Republican.
Witt, 38, emphasized his commitment to an “America First” agenda, promising to prioritize controlling inflation, securing the border, and strengthening the military. He cited his 14 years of military service, including 82 combat missions, as evidence of his dedication to public service. “I will listen to the needs of my constituents, and I will work on their behalf,” Witt stated.
The announcement comes after Gaetz withdrew his nomination for Attorney General and definitively stated he would not return to Congress. Witt’s campaign has already received endorsements from prominent figures, including former Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie, who praised Witt’s commitment to “family and freedom.” Retired Lt. Gen. Stanley Clarke, under whom Witt served, also offered his strong support.
Witt faces a crowded Republican primary field, including State Sen. Michelle Salzman and several other candidates. The date of the special election has yet to be determined. Witt’s brother, Patrick, served in the Trump administration and ran for office in Georgia in 2022.
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