Tom Wright Endorses Ryan Elijah in GOP Primary Challenge to Cory Mills

U.S. Rep. Cory Mills and Republican congressional candidate Ryan Elijah ahead of Florida's 7th Congressional District Republican primary.

State Sen. Tom Wright has endorsed former television news anchor Ryan Elijah in the Republican primary for Florida’s 7th Congressional District, adding momentum to Elijah’s campaign as he seeks to unseat two-term U.S. Rep. Cory Mills.

Wright, a Republican representing portions of Volusia and Brevard counties since 2018, said Elijah possesses the leadership and commitment needed to represent Central Florida in Congress while supporting President Donald Trump’s agenda.

“At a time when Florida needs steady leadership, principled judgment and a clear commitment to public service, Mr. Ryan Elijah has the experience and dedication necessary to represent our state with distinction,” Wright said. “I am confident he will be a staunch supporter of President Trump’s agenda and a tireless advocate for the people of Congressional District 7.”

Elijah announced his campaign after leaving WOFL FOX 35 Orlando, where he spent more than a decade as a television journalist. He co-anchored Good Day Orlando and hosted Orlando Matters, interviewing numerous political leaders, including President Trump.

Republican Primary Intensifies

The endorsement comes as the Republican primary continues to grow more competitive.

Federal Election Commission filings show Mills continues to lead the Republican field in total fundraising but reported raising less than $60,000 during the second quarter, entering July with approximately $81,000 in cash on hand.

Elijah, who entered the race in April, has raised approximately $167,000 while spending only about $33,000, leaving significantly more resources available for the campaign’s final months.

Republicans Michael Johnson and Sarah Ulrich have also qualified for the GOP primary.

Mills Continues Campaign Amid Ethics Investigation

Mills remains one of Florida’s highest-profile Republican incumbents but continues campaigning while facing an ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation.

The congressman has also denied allegations involving his personal conduct and accusations related to defense contracting during his time in Congress.

Despite the controversies, Mills has highlighted his endorsement from President Donald Trump, which is expected to remain a significant advantage with Republican primary voters.

Democrats Target Florida’s 7th District

National Democrats are also closely watching the race.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) has designated Florida’s 7th Congressional District as part of its Red to Blue program, identifying it as one of the party’s top pickup opportunities in 2026.

Former NASA Chief of Staff Bale Dalton has emerged as the Democratic fundraising leader, reporting approximately $1.2 million raised, including about $500,000 during the second quarter, according to Federal Election Commission filings.

Former Congressman Alan Grayson, Navy veteran Marialana Kinter, and Libertarian Christopher Dennison have also qualified for the race.

According to the Cook Political Report, Florida’s 7th Congressional District has a Republican Partisan Voting Index of R+5 and is currently rated Likely Republican, though national Democrats believe the district is increasingly competitive.

With endorsements, fundraising, and national attention continuing to build, Florida’s 7th Congressional District is expected to remain one of the state’s most closely watched congressional races heading into the 2026 primary election.

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