With U.S. Rep. Ted Yoho, R-Fla., announcing earlier this week that he was not running for a fifth term in 2020, top Republicans from the Sunshine State are backing businessman and former congressional aide Judson Sapp to replace him.
Sapp reeled in two major endorsements this week as U.S. Rep. John Rutherford, R-Fla., and U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., throwing their support behind him.
“President Trump needs allies in Congress like Judson Sapp. Judson is a devoted family man, successful businessman, and a solid conservative we can count on to lead from day one. I’m proud to support my friend Judson Sapp for Congress,” Rutherford said on Friday.
“John Rutherford is a widely known leader in North Florida,” said Sapp. “John has been elected as sheriff and congressman. In both roles he has been beloved by his constituents and respected by those he serves with. I’m blessed to call John my friend.”
“Judson is a husband, father, and successful businessman who knows what it takes to lead and get the job done. I endorse Judson Sapp for Congress because he will fight for Florida and stand up for conservative values,” Buchanan said on Thursday.
“I sincerely appreciate the endorsement from Congressman Buchanan,” said Sapp. “Vern has succeeded in business and in leadership roles in Congress. I’ m honored to have his support.”
Sapp faces longtime Yoho staffer Kat Cammack, former congressional aide Joe Millado and businesswoman Amy Pope Wells in the Republican primary. With Yoho sticking to his promise to serve only four terms in Congress, other possible Republican candidates include Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn and Clay County Commissioner Gavin Rollins. Three Democrats–Phil Dodds, Richard Rowe and Tom Wells–are running in this solidly red district which stretches from Clay County to parts of Gainesville and Ocala.
Reach Kevin Derby at kevin.derby@floridadaily.com.
