Trump dismisses Johnson’s request for peace, instead calls for challenger against GOP incumbent

Donald Trump ‌Sparks Primary Challenge ⁤Against Florida House Republican

Former President ⁤Donald ⁤Trump ​is making ⁣waves with his‍ recent call for a ‍primary challenge against Rep. Laurel Lee (R-FL) in​ Florida’s⁤ 15th ‍Congressional District, defying his party’s warnings against involvement in GOP lawmakers’ ⁤reelection efforts.

“Any great MAGA Republicans looking to run against Laurel Lee in Florida’s 15th Congressional District? IF SO, PLEASE ⁣STEP FORWARD!”

The move, announced on Truth ⁣Social, signals Trump’s readiness ⁣to shake up​ the political landscape despite House Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-LA) plea ‍for Republicans to maintain unity leading up to the 2024 election.

Backstory: Why Challenge Lee?

The call for a challenger stems from Lee’s‌ initial support of Gov. Ron DeSantis’s ⁢presidential campaign over Trump, only shifting⁣ her endorsement to Trump after DeSantis left the race. Trump’s swift reaction underscores his willingness to confront those within the party who⁣ diverge from his stance.

While ⁣some, ‍like ​Rep. Thomas ‌Massie (R-KY), find Trump’s maneuver ‌divisive, with Massie deeming it as “bullying tactics,” others like Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) have also publicly supported primary challenges against fellow ​Republicans whom they deem not conservative ‍enough.

Despite ⁤the pushback and ⁤Johnson’s appeal for party ⁤cohesion,​ Trump’s ‌call for a primary challenger exemplifies his assertive role in shaping the GOP landscape as the 2022 elections draw near.

As Lee prepares for her reelection bid with no current challengers in sight for the upcoming primary, the political stage in Florida remains poised for potential upheaval as the GOP primary‌ qualifying deadline looms.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing political story.

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