U.S. Reps. Marlin Stutzman (R-IN) and John McGuire (R-VA) have endorsed Ola Hawatmeh (R) in her bid for Florida's 19th Congressional District this week. Hawatweh, described as an "America First" candidate, is looking to succeed Congressman Byron Donalds, who is running for Florida governor.
Rep. Stuzman credited Hawatmeh, a small-business owner, for helping Congressional Republicans pass the 'One Big Beautiful Bill' last July. The bill narrowly passed in the House, 218-14, and in the Senate 51-50, with Vice President J.D. Vance as the tie-breaking vote.
"It was the night of the vote on the Big Beautiful Bill. It was a cliffhanger; we didn’t know if we were going to have every vote, and she’s working on the Hill with other members, and she actually helped us get the vote across the finish line," Stuztman wrote in a statement.
Hawatmeh's assistance was likely a big plus in the eyes of President Donald Trump. As possible proof, Hawatmeh earned the endorsement of Rep. Meg 'MAGA Meg' Weinberger (R), a key ally of President Trump and arguably a rising star in the Florida Legislature.
Rep. Weinberger praised Hawatmeh for her loyalty to Trump's "America First" agenda in a campaign release earlier this month.
"I know about service, and sacrifice, and love of country. I have endorsed Ola for Congress because she loves our country, she loves freedom, she’s great with policy, and she would be a great addition to the team," McGuire added.
Congressional District 19 covers Southwest Florida, including large parts of Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee, and Sarasota counties. Cities in the area include Cape Coral, Marco Island, Naples, and Fort Myers.
Hawatmeh is competing against several GOP candidates to replace Rep. Donalds, who has served CD-19 since 2021. The candidates include former U.S. Reps. Madison Cawthorn and Chris Collins, Catalina Lauf, John Fratto, Stephen Elliot, Dylan Modarelli, Jim Oberweis, Mike Pedersen, Louis Shenker, and John Strand.
Democratic candidates include Martin Kane, Victor Arias, and Howard Sapp.
Donalds won the seat comfortably in each of his election bids (2020/2022/2024) with well over 60 percent of the vote.
