What the Florida and Alaska primary results mean for November
PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-08-19 17:55:00 — www.pbs.org
President Trump Distances Himself from Defeated Endorsee Cory Mills in Florida Primary
President Trump sought to distance himself from the defeat of his endorsed candidate, Representative Cory Mills, in Florida’s Republican primary. Following Mills’ loss amid multiple investigations and allegations of abuse and profiteering—which Mills denies—Trump posted on TRUTH Social: “I told Congressman Cory Mills of Florida, a friend of mine, to get out of the race, but he wouldn’t listen.” Trump has now shifted his endorsement to the candidate who defeated Mills.
This response from Trump highlights a pattern of distancing himself from political allies after their electoral losses, despite previously offering support. The move comes as Mills faces ongoing scrutiny and will not return to Congress in January.
Trump’s public statement attempts to reframe his involvement in the race, suggesting he advised Mills to withdraw, even as he previously endorsed him. This approach reflects Trump’s broader strategy of managing political setbacks by quickly realigning his support and minimizing association with unsuccessful candidates.
As the political landscape in Florida continues to shift, Trump’s endorsements and subsequent reactions remain a focal point in Republican primary dynamics.
Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/what-the-florida-and-alaska-primary-results-mean-for-november