Rubio Endorses Barnett for Palm Beach GOP Chair

Michael A. Barnett, the Chairman of the Republican Party of Palm Beach County, is seeking another term as Chairman. Last month, he announced that he had been endorsed by President Donald Trump (R), who spoke highly of Barnett’s efforts in the position. This week, Barnett announced that Florida Senator Marco Rubio (R) has also endorsed him, calling his work as Chairman “tremendous.”

West Palm Beach significantly voted blue in the November 8 election with Florida Reps. Jared Moskowitz (D), Lois Frankel (D), and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D) all won their respective elections. However, Florida decidedly voted Republican while Florida Rep. Val Demings (D) won Palm Beach County by a small margin. Moreover, South Palm Beach County, which has been considered a longtime Democratic stronghold, will now be represented by Republican Peggy Gosset-Seidman.

The GOP is hopeful that this newfound support for the Republican party will amplify in the next two years, which can translate into more wins across the state and the country.

In his endorsement of Barnett, President Trump issued a letter to supporters, praising Barnett for his accomplishments as Chairman. "Michael has advanced our MAGA agenda, and Palm Beach County has seen record increases in voter registration and voter turnout every single election, especially among the Haitian community," said Trump, adding that "the Republican Party of Palm Beach County needs his continued leadership."

Senator Rubio has echoed in Trump's remarks, saying that "Michael Barnett has been a tremendous chairman of the Palm Beach County Republicans." Rubio added that Barnett's "efforts were a critical part of our historic success in the county in 2022, and I am enthusiastic to support his re-election.”

The race for Chairman of the Palm Beach Republican Party has been a contentious one. Barnett has served in the role since 2013, and he faces a challenger in Candace Rojas.