Former Florida Senate President Mike Haridopolos announced his bid for the U.S. House of Representatives in Florida’s 8th Congressional District, succeeding the retiring Rep. Bill Posey who endorsed him.

Former Florida Senate President Mike Haridopolos announced on Friday his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives in Florida’s 8th Congressional District, seeking to replace the retiring Rep. Bill Posey.

The announcement came hours after Posey, a Republican who has represented the district since 2008, declared he would not seek reelection at the end of his term. Posey subsequently endorsed Haridopolos.

Haridopolos served as the Florida Senate President from 2010 to 2012. In his announcement, he emphasized his commitment to addressing pressing national issues such as immigration and economic policy, aligning closely with former President Donald Trump’s America First agenda.

“Our nation is facing unprecedented problems here at home and overseas.  Our Southern Border is in chaos. Illegal immigration is out of control. Higher prices are crushing our families and killing the American dream. It’s a mess, and we need leaders in Congress to stand up and fix it,” Haridopolos said in a prepared statement. “I am no stranger to navigating legislative discord to get results for the people, and I pledge to bring my private sector and leadership experience to Washington DC to get the job done. As your Congressman, I will stand with President Trump and his America First Agenda.”

The district, covering Brevard, Indian River, and part of Orange County, is a Republican stronghold, with Posey having secured the seat comfortably in past elections. Haridopolos’ entry into the race is expected to maintain the GOP’s strong presence in the area.

Endorsements for Haridopolos have already started to accumulate from various high-profile conservatives. Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis and other state leaders have voiced their support, highlighting Haridopolos’ leadership capabilities and legislative experience.

“Mike Haridopolos led the Florida Senate at a difficult time in Florida’s economy with Rick Scott as Governor. Mike helped to get Florida back on its feet and we have been thriving ever since. Im proud to support my friend Mike Haridopolos for United States Congress,” Patronis said on X.