TAMPA, Fla — Republican Matt Gaetz won reelection to keep his seat in the U.S. House of Representatives for his third term.
He beat Democratic opponent Phil Ehr to retain the District 1 seat representing Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties.
His work in Congress has focused on "national security, veterans’ affairs, and adherence to constitutional principles," according to his election page.
The Associated Press reports Gaetz secured the victory within minutes of Florida polling places officially closing in the Panhandle.
In a video to voters, Rep. Gaetz said "from the bottom of my heart I want to thank the great people of northwest Florida for this overwhelming election win tonight. It's always special to win an election and receive a positive performance review from my bosses, the voters of this great district."
He also appeared to fire-off tweets following his victory responding to his opponent's comments from earlier in the night. In the tweets, Rep. Gaetz asked Ehr if he would concede to him or claim the election was rigged.
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