Eddie Speir isn't backing down from a challenge, especially not against the established power within the Florida Republican party. He first made waves in 2024, boldly taking on ten-term Congressman Vern Buchanan and securing nearly 40% of the vote – a remarkable feat for a self-described constitutional conservative outsider.
Now, with Buchanan’s recent retirement announcement after nearly two decades in Washington, Speir is launching another campaign, fueled by a grassroots movement and a clear message: to dismantle what he calls the “RINO Republicans” who he believes have lost touch with their constituents.
Speir’s core argument centers on representation and a commitment to a strong, unwavering agenda. He believes Washington needs individuals willing to fight for the people of Florida, not compromise with the established elite. His previous run was about exposing the disconnect, and he intends to build on that momentum.
His 2024 campaign was unprecedented in the district, garnering a level of grassroots support rarely seen in Florida politics. Achieving 40% against an incumbent is a testament to the power of his message and the dedication of his supporters, a foundation he intends to leverage in the upcoming primary on August 18th.
Several potential contenders are already being discussed as possible opponents. Among them is Joe Gruters, a close ally of former President Trump, who previously worked on Buchanan’s campaigns and is widely considered the establishment’s preferred candidate.
However, Gruters faces a complex situation, currently holding three significant positions: a Florida state senator, the chairman of the Republican National Committee, and a candidate for Florida Chief Financial Officer in 2026. This juggling act may force him to choose between these commitments and a run for Buchanan’s seat.
Richard Corcoran, the President of New College of Florida, is also being mentioned as a potential candidate. Interestingly, Speir himself was appointed to the New College board by Governor Ron DeSantis, though his appointment was ultimately rejected by the Florida Senate.
Speir’s time at New College, and the subsequent Senate rejection, unexpectedly thrust him into the national spotlight during a period when the Florida GOP was actively attempting to reshape the school’s identity. This controversy, rather than hindering him, seems to have amplified his voice.
Other names circulating include former state Representative Mike Beltran, developer Carlos Beruff, former state Senate President Bill Galvano, and Manatee County Commissioner Mike Rahn, suggesting a potentially crowded and competitive primary field.
Speir acknowledges he’s not just fighting the local GOP establishment, but potentially facing headwinds from former President Trump himself. He points to Trump’s endorsement of Buchanan in the previous primary, despite Buchanan’s record, as evidence of a disconnect between Trump’s stated priorities and the actions of his political machine.
Speir believes it’s crucial to distinguish between Trump’s commitment to conservative principles and the political maneuvering of those around him. While he doesn’t dismiss the value of a Trump endorsement, he emphasizes that his campaign already achieved a historic level of support as a challenger in 2024.
