WUFT News News and Public Media for North Central Florida from the University of Florida in Gainesville
U.S. Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) is rallying supporters as he organizes his first legislative re-election campaign. He announced in January his plans to seek a second term in 2024.
Scott was in Gainesville Monday morning, speaking to Republican party officials and supporters. He updated them on issues in Washington, D.C., and asked for their early support.
“Every community is important. Gainesville has a great Republican Party. I’ve had the opportunity as governor to come here quite a bit and as senator quite a bit,” Scott told reporters after the event. “My job is to do my best to represent them and work hard to get all their votes.”
Scott admitted he has not had the best relationship with Republican Senate Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY). Scott unsuccessfully challenged McConnell for the minority leader post. He believes McConnell is trying to enlist a primary challenger.
“I’m going to work hard and with the support of volunteers all across the state, we’re going to have a big win,” Scott said.
Scott narrowly beat incumbent Senator Bill Nelson in the 2018 election. He previously served two terms as Florida governor.
No Democrat has announced plans to challenge Scott next year.
