Florida media executive Jim Schwartzel, 33, won the Republican nomination in a special primary to succeed Representative Byron Donalds, despite President Donald Trump having endorsed a rival candidate. The result is notable because it interrupts what Fox News describes as Trump's otherwise unbroken winning streak with endorsed candidates during the 2026 primary season, including recent Texas victories such as Ken Paxton's Senate primary runoff win.

The contest to replace Donalds, who is vacating his House seat, was described as a "circus-like primary," reflecting a crowded and contentious field of candidates. Despite Trump's backing going to another contender, Schwartzel secured the GOP nod, positioning him to contest the seat in the general election.