Embattled U.S. Rep. Cory Mills (R-Fla.) faced a relentless onslaught of accusations from his Republican primary challengers on Wednesday, with rivals pressing him on allegations of “stolen valor,” a purported Justice Department investigation, and claims that he converted to Islam.
Mills, who is also under investigation by the House Ethics Committee for “serious and complex” accusations, including domestic assault, maintained a defiant stance throughout the debate, denying the allegations. His opponents argued that these controversies could jeopardize the Republican hold on Florida's Seventh Congressional District.
Ryan Elijah, a former Orlando news anchor and a candidate for Mills' seat, stated that his campaign is focused on securing the district, which he believes is at risk. Elijah highlighted that he has garnered 20 endorsements from individuals, including Reps. Anna Paulina Luna and Mike Haridopolos, who have reportedly lost confidence in Mills.
Elijah also made references to an alleged Department of Justice investigation into Mills, asserting, “I can promise you, 100%, there is a DOJ investigation.” Mills dismissed this as “fake news,” stating he had no knowledge of such a probe and citing alleged statements from House Speaker Mike Johnson and FBI Director Kash Patel that also denied awareness of an active investigation.
Another challenger, Army veteran Michael Don Johnson, focused on Mills' military service record. Johnson claimed Mills had lied about heroic actions in Iraq that led to a Bronze Star award, stating, “Stolen valor is a very, very important thing for me.” Mills countered by directing people to his military records, asserting that his Bronze Star is documented in both his 2004 discharge paperwork and a 2024 update.
Sarah Ulrich, also running against Mills, questioned the congressman about allegations that he married his ex-wife, an Iraqi war refugee, in a mosque and converted to Islam. Mills responded that they were married at a Virginia courthouse and affirmed, “I’m a proud Christian, I always have been.” Michael Don Johnson later presented a document he claimed showed Mills was married at a mosque and had undergone “Islamic training to be a good Muslim husband.” Mills called this claim “nonsense.”
Mills concluded the debate by noting his endorsements from President Donald Trump and stating that he has not been found guilty of any wrongdoing. He emphasized Trump's support, saying, “Three times I have been endorsed by President Donald J. Trump. He supports me. He trusts me, and I hope you will too.” The primary election is scheduled for Aug. 18.