With congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite suddenly retiring due to health concerns, Hernando County Sheriff Rich Nugent is the favorite of the Republican establishment over conservative activist Jason Sager. Nugent raised more than $145,000 in his first quarter as a congressional candidate, with more than $86,000 coming from individuals, almost $48,000 from PACs, with the candidate putting $11,000 of his own money into his campaign. Nugent had more than $114,000 on hand at June 30. While Sager has raised more than $33,000, he has less than $4,800 on hand.
The winner of the Republican primary will take on Army veteran and small-business consultant Jim Piccillo, the only Democrat in the race. Piccillo has brought in more than $82,000 and had less than $7,700 on hand on June 30.
While not a lock by any means, Nugent should be able to keep this seat for the Republicans.
