Florida Republicans Sen. Randy Fine and Jimmy Patronis won special congressional elections Tuesday, retaining GOP control of two districts and modestly expanding the party’s advantage in the U.S. House.

Fine defeated Democrat Josh Weil in Florida’s 6th Congressional District with 56.7 percent of the vote, according to returns. The seat was vacated by former Rep. Mike Waltz, who resigned to serve as national security adviser in President Donald Trump’s administration.

“Today, voters reminded the world that Florida is Trump Country. I won because of Donald Trump’s endorsement and his call for voters to send me to be a warrior for his America First agenda,” Fine said. “In my visits to the polls today, I spoke to voters who waited for more than an hour because they wanted the country to know they still stand with President Trump.  They are demanding Washington follow his bold leadership to secure our border, demand fair trade, and restore America as a leader on the world stage.  To the voters who helped make today’s decisive victory possible, thank you for your support — I will not let you down.”

Weil, a progressive teacher, raised more than $9 million in small-dollar donations, far outpacing Fine’s $1 million. Internal polling in the final weeks showed a close race, prompting increased national GOP engagement. Trump, along with allied political committees and conservative commentators, lent support to Fine in the final stretch, including a tele-town hall with voters.

In the 1st Congressional District, Patronis, Florida’s former chief financial officer, won 57 percent of the vote to defeat Democrat Gay Valimont, who received 42 percent.

The seat had been held by Matt Gaetz until his resignation in November following his nomination by Trump to serve as attorney general. Gaetz later withdrew from consideration amid an unresolved House Ethics Committee investigation. Patronis, a longtime state official and ally of Trump and Sen. Rick Scott, resigned his state post on Monday ahead of taking office.

“Just received a call from the President,” said Patronis following his victory. “He’s the best. Couldn’t be more honored. Told him the $6 million against me couldn’t compete against his Truth Social posts. Ready to serve. Thanks for everyone’s support.”

Both districts, considered Republican strongholds, backed Trump by wide margins in 2024. Republicans now hold 220 seats in the U.S. House, compared with 213 for Democrats.