U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., routed the opposition in Tuesday’s Republican primary.
With 87 percent of the vote in, Gaetz, a top ally of President Donald Trump, had 81 percent. Primary challengers Greg Merk and John Mills, both of whom served as Navy officers, were well behind with the two of them hovering around 9.5 percent apiece.
Representing one of the most conservative districts in the nation, Gaetz will be a heavy favorite to win a third term in November.
Phil Ehr, a retired Navy officer who challenged Gaetz in 2018, is back for a rematch. Attorney Bert Oram, who served in the Navy, is running with no party affiliation.
Reach Kevin Derby at kevin.derby@floridadaily.com.
