FLORIDA — Rep. Matt Gaetz won the Republican primary Tuesday in his bid to hold on to his seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.

What You Need To Know

  • Rep. Matt Gaetz won his Republican primary Tuesday

  • He faced a well-funded opponent in Navy veteran Aaron Dimmock

Shortly after polls closed, Gaetz won 71.2% of the vote, compared to 28.8% of voters who supported Navy veteran Aaron Dimmock. 

That seat is currently held by Gaetz, and has been since 2017. Gaetz was instrumental in ousting former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy from his position, and is backed by former President Donald Trump.

Perhaps due to the high profile of Gaetz, the primary race has been expensive. According to Politico, more than $5.1 million was spent between Gaetz and Dimmock ahead of the primary. It should be noted that some have suggested that Gaetz may also be a possible contender for the governor's mansion after Gov. Ron DeSantis' term.

Gaetz will face Democrat Gay Valimont in November.