In Northeast Florida, establishment Republicans are scrambling as grassroots conservatives have successfully taken control of the Saint Johns County Republican Party. This significant shift could have profound implications for the upcoming congressional primary in Florida’s fifth district.
Earlier this year, the county’s Republican Executive Committee (REC) saw the ousting of its former chairman, Blake Paterson, a known grassroots conservative. Vice Chairman Jaime Parham temporarily took over until an election was held in the spring. Denver Cook, a grassroots conservative and candidate for local office, won the election for chairman. Under Cook’s leadership, the Saint Johns County GOP endorsed a slate of grassroots candidates, including Mara Macie for the U.S. House of Representatives.
Macie is challenging incumbent Rep. John Rutherford (R-FL), an establishment figure known for supporting big government spending and foreign aid packages. Rutherford’s voting record and refusal to debate Macie have frustrated many constituents. Macie, the wife of Navy whistleblower Ted Macie, has gained support through grassroots organizing and has not taken PAC dollars, relying on small donations.
Saint Johns County, a wealthy and influential area, is crucial for Macie’s campaign. Winning this county could significantly boost her chances in the primary against Rutherford, who has the endorsement of former President Donald Trump. Despite Trump’s support, the local GOP’s endorsement of Macie highlights the growing discontent with establishment politicians.
Cook’s leadership has also seen endorsements of other conservative candidates for local offices, challenging the establishment’s hold. The Republican Party of Florida has confirmed Cook as the legitimate chairman, validating the local GOP’s endorsements. This move has strengthened the grassroots conservatives’ position and set the stage for a potentially transformative primary on August 20.
