Lizbeth Benacquisto Jumps into Race to Replace Trey Radel

State Sen. Lizbeth Benacquisto, R-Fort Myers, announced Monday she'll be running to replace Trey Radel in the U.S. House of Representatives.

People are calling out for someone who can end the dysfunction in Washington, Benacquisto said. "The constituents that I have the honor and privilege to serve, I truly care about them. We have been strong and resolute in their encouragement and general push for me to lend my name for consideration. That coupled with the fact that there are so many critical issues in our country that affect our area have motivated me to serve in that capacity.

Benacquisto had been long rumored to be a front-runner for the seat and recent polls put her ahead of other potential candidates to replace Radel. Just last week, the Senate majority leader was in Washington meeting with Republican leadership about her potential run for Congress.

She will join former state Rep. Paige Kreegel, Curt Clawson, Mike Giallombardo, Brian Gibens, Timothy Rossano and Michael Dreikorn in a run for the coveted seat in Congress.

The primary election to replace Radel in Congress will be held April 22 with the general election taking place June 24.