Jim Schwartzel was projected to win the Republican primary for Florida’s 19th Congressional District, prevailing in a crowded race for Rep. Byron Donalds’ open seat, which he opted to vacate in order to mount a run for governor.
The Associated Press called the race Tuesday for Schwartzel, a conservative local media mogul, who bested nearly a dozen candidates — including President Donald Trump’s pick, Catalina Lauf, and two former members of Congress with controversial tenures.
As the Republican nominee, Schwartzel will face Democrat Victor Arias in November. Schwartzel is likely to become the next representative for the district rated “Solid R” by the Cook Political Report.