Republican Jimmy Patronis wins special election for Gaetz's Florida seat

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis was has won the special election to replace former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) in the 1st Congressional District, defeating Democrat Gay Valimont, according to Decision Desk HQ.

The district is located along Florida’s western Panhandle. 

Patronis jumped into the race last November after President Trump publicly encouraged him to run for the seat. Following Trump’s endorsement, a number of announced candidates for the seat quickly dropped out of the race and backed Patronis.