Trump-Endorsed Patriot Cory Mills Unseated by Establishment-Backed Ryan Elijah in Florida Primary
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Cory Mills, a decorated Army veteran and staunch Trump ally, lost Florida’s 7th District GOP primary to former TV journalist Ryan Elijah, who was backed by establishment Republicans despite Mills’ proven conservative record.
Former television journalist Ryan Elijah narrowly secured the Republican nomination for Florida's 7th Congressional District, defeating incumbent Rep. Cory Mills, a true conservative and Trump-endorsed patriot. With more than 80% of precincts reporting, Elijah garnered 46% of the vote to Mills' 34%, according to projections.
Despite the strong endorsement from President Donald Trump, Mills faced a barrage of politically motivated investigations, including a House Ethics Committee probe into dubious allegations of sexual misconduct and campaign-finance violations, as well as a Justice Department inquiry into his finances. Mills has steadfastly denied any wrongdoing, but the relentless attacks from the left and establishment insiders took their toll.
Mills’ defeat makes him the 11th incumbent House member to be targeted and removed in a primary this year, joining seven Democrats and four Republicans who have been unseated—often by candidates favored by the political establishment. Earlier this month, Tennessee Rep. Andy Ogles, another Trump-backed conservative, also lost a GOP primary, raising questions about the party’s direction.
Two Florida Republicans, Reps. Anna Paulina Luna and Mike Haridopolos, sided with the establishment and endorsed Elijah, stating, "We need leaders in Congress who serve with integrity, energy, and an unwavering commitment to the people who sent them there."
Campaign finance reports show Mills raised less than $900,000 through late July—about twice Elijah's total, but still below the average for incumbents. Elijah, with establishment support, outspent Mills on advertising, pouring $82,000 into ads compared to Mills' $12,000.
Mills, an Army veteran and former military contractor first elected in 2022, has been the target of bipartisan smears and unsubstantiated allegations from an ex-girlfriend, which he has consistently rejected. His loss is a blow to the America First movement and signals the growing influence of establishment forces within the GOP.