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Florida GOP split as two Republicans back challenger to embattled Rep. Cory Mills

Two Florida House Republicans have thrown their support behind former sports reporter Ryan Elijah in the primary against incumbent Cory Mills, who faces ethics and abuse investigations.

In a sign of growing discord among House Republicans, Mike Haridopolos and Anna Paulina Luna publicly backed former sports reporter Ryan Elijah to challenge incumbent Cory Mills in Florida’s 7th District primary. Mills, who has been investigated for financial matters and alleged domestic abuse, has repeatedly rejected the accusations and claimed no Justice Department inquiry exists. The endorsement urges other GOP voters to support Elijah, with the primary scheduled for Aug. 11.

The Cook Political Report recently downgraded the district from “Solid R” to “Likely R,” suggesting a tighter race that could attract Democratic resources.

Why it matters

The primary could flip a historically Republican seat, affecting control of Congress in the final half of Trump's term.

In this story

Florida GOP primaryCory Mills investigationRyan Elijah endorsementCook Political Report ratingRepublican infighting