Bale Dalton secured the Democratic nomination in Florida's 7th Congressional District on Tuesday, setting the stage for a challenge against incumbent Republican Cory Mills. The district, once considered a safe GOP seat, is now viewed as a potential pickup opportunity for Democrats.
The Cook Political Report has downgraded the district's outlook from "safe" Republican to "likely" GOP, with a rating of R+5, indicating a competitive race.
Dalton, a retired Navy helicopter pilot, defeated former congressman Alan Grayson and fellow Navy veteran Marialana Kinter in the primary. He has been added to the House Democratic campaign arm's "Red to Blue" list, signaling anticipated support from national party resources. Dalton also received endorsements from VoteVets, the Blue Dog Coalition, and U.S. Representatives Kathy Castor and Lois Frankel.
Rep. Mills is currently facing scrutiny related to alleged sexual harassment and financial impropriety. He is under investigation by the House Ethics Committee and has also been the subject of reports alleging a Department of Justice probe, which Mills has denied. He has stated that a Florida Republican primary opponent is behind the allegations of a DOJ investigation.
Two fellow Florida Republican representatives, Anna Paulina Luna and Mike Haridopolos, have publicly called for Mills to withdraw from the race. Mills entered his bid for a third term with an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, though Trump has not commented on the controversies surrounding Mills. Mills, a former Army officer, has denied any wrongdoing.
