Written by Jasper Ward
(Reuters) – Former U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz said he is “starting to think about running for governor” in 2026 in his home state of Florida.
“I have a compelling vision for the state,” Gaetz told the Tampa Bay Times. “I understand how to solve the insurance problem, not hand the keys of the state to the insurance industry. If I run, I will.” The most pro-consumer candidate is on the Republican side.
The three-term congressman, who represented Florida, resigned in November, after US President-elect Donald Trump selected him to be the next US Attorney General. He withdrew from consideration for that job amid a storm of controversy.
Gaetz was under investigation by the House Ethics Committee over allegations of illicit drug use and sex with a 17-year-old underage girl. While he denied any wrongdoing, the commission found last month that he paid tens of thousands of dollars to women for drugs and sex.
Florida has a limit of two consecutive four-year terms for governor. As a result, Florida will have to elect a new governor in 2026 once Ron DeSantis, who is already serving his second term, leaves office.
