The first Republican congressional debate between the candidates running in Florida's 2nd District to replace retiring Rep. Neal Dunn (R) came to pass, and while all of the candidates stuck to their talking points and threw out red political meat to voters, businessman Keith Gross surprised attendees by announcing that if he won the congressional seat, he would forgo his salary as a member of Congress.
Gross, a business law attorney, pointed out the dissatisfaction he has over individuals who go to Congress with "modest means," but years later, "they come out millionaires," adding," if they're looking for a paycheck or a career in Congress shouldn't be it."
Gross also equated himself to President Donald Trump and two of his cabinet members, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who left "high-paying private sector opportunities" to then go and serve everyday Americans," adding that he will be donating his full salary if he is elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.
I am in some ways similar to the president and some of those in his inner circle, people like Howard Lutnick and Scott Bessent, who left high-paying private sector opportunities to serve the people of our great nation because they believe in America," Gross said. " I'm proud to announce that I will follow in the footsteps of our president and do something that no one has ever done in this district before —I'll be donating my congressional salary to worthy causes right here in the Panhandle."
Florida's primary election will be held on August 18. Gross will face off against former Senatorial staffer Austin Rogers. Republican Party of Florida Chairman Evan Power, Veteran Luke Murphy, Commissioner Jim Norton, and Audie Rowell.
