Cory Mills loses Florida primary
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The gist
Rep. Cory Mills lost Florida's GOP primary to Ryan Elijah. The loss marks a rare primary defeat for a Trump-endorsed incumbent amid ethics probes.
Background
Cory Mills, a two-term Republican congressman from Florida's 7th District, faced a House Ethics Committee investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct and dating violence, as well as a protective order obtained by a former girlfriend. Despite President Trump's endorsement, local Republicans and Governor DeSantis withheld support, and former TV anchor Ryan Elijah defeated him in the primary.
How it unfolded
- Feb 2026President Trump endorsed Cory Mills for re-election.
- Oct 2025A Florida judge granted a protective order against Mills after a former girlfriend accused him of threatening to release nude images.
- Apr 2026The House Ethics Committee announced it was investigating Mills for possible sexual misconduct and/or dating violence.
- Aug 2026Reps. Luna and Haridopolos endorsed Ryan Elijah; Gov. DeSantis said he does not support Mills.
- Aug 18, 2026Mills lost the Republican primary to Ryan Elijah, according to AP and NBC News projections.
Who’s saying what
- Support
- Voter Austin said Mills 'delivers for our district' and has brought money and fixed issues.
- Caution
- Voter Tiffany Davis said Mills had too much 'baggage' and worried he would lose the general election.
- Official
- Reps. Luna and Haridopolos wrote that 'we need leaders in Congress who serve with integrity' in endorsing Elijah.
- Analysts
- Political analysts said Mills's nomination could make the district competitive for Democrats.
Still unverified
Allegations of assault and threatening behavior toward women, including a recanted domestic assault report, are disputed and unproven; Mills denies all wrongdoing.