Brian Gibens Ends Congressional Bid, Backs Lizbeth Benacquisto

Veteran Brian Gibens announced on Thursday that he was ending his bid for the Republican nomination to replace former U.S. Rep. Trey Radel, R-Fla., in Congress and was endorsing Florida Senate Majority Leader Lizbeth Benacusito, R-Fort Myers, in the primary next month.

I wanted to run for this seat because I care about constitutional conservative principles, Gibens wrote in a letter released on Thursday. But its clear to me now that we already have someone in this race who cares about individual freedom, conservative values, and making America great again: Lizbeth Benacquisto.

Please join me in supporting Lizbeth Benacquisto for Congress, Gibens continued. Please mark April 22nd down on your calendars. That is the day we send one of Southwest Floridas most passionate and trusted conservative voices to fight for our principles in D.C.

All the support Im receiving is humbling, but when I earn the backing of brave men and women whove served in uniform I feel especially honored, Benacquisto said. I appreciate Brians commitment to service and welcome his support.