Trump-backed Catalina Lauf loses Florida GOP primary to local broadcaster Jim Schwartzel

Catalina Lauf, a Trump-endorsed candidate, lost Florida's 19th Congressional District GOP primary Tuesday to local broadcaster Jim Schwartzel, who won with over 29 percent of the vote. Lauf, an Illinois transplant, finished second with nearly 22 percent. Five candidates had out-of-state political ties, including former Reps. Madison Cawthorn and Chris Collins, who placed last with 8.5 and 7 percent respectively. This marked another Trump endorsement defeat after recent losses for his picks Lindell and Ogles. The seat opened as Rep. Byron Donalds runs for governor. Schwartzel, emphasizing local roots, advances to the Nov. 3 general election as heavy favorite in the solidly Republican district.