Ex-Fox35 Orlando news anchor Ryan Elijah plans to jump into the race for embattled U.S. Rep. Cory Mills’ seat.
“We must have a representative in Washington who puts your needs first,” Elijah said in a statement as he announced he intends to file for Florida’s 7th Congressional District.
“I have raised my family in the district for 14 years and will make hardworking families, small businesses and safe communities my No. 1 priority.”
Elijah worked as a co-anchor of Good Day Orlando and host of Orlando Matters on WOFL FOX 35 where his interviews centered around business and politics. He even landed an one-on-one interview with President Donald Trump. Elijah departed the station April 14.
The Sanford Republican said he decided to run for the district that represents Seminole and Volusia counties after talking with community leaders.
“After dozens of phone calls with our area leaders, I am overwhelmed by the support I have received,” he said in a statement.
Elijah’s website said he was an advocate for the Second Amendment, lowering taxes and less regulation.
His career included multiple Emmy nominations, including most recently accolades for staff coverage of a tornado, according to his campaign.
“During his broadcasting career, he created a consumer advocacy segment that returned thousands of dollars to residents in need,” his website also said. “The segment frequently tackled complex federal issues, including Social Security disability benefits and consumer protection matters.”
Elijah acknowledged his departure from journalism in a recent social media post.
“I just wanted to take a moment to say goodbye. The last 14 years with Fox have been some of the most rewarding in my life,” he wrote.
Previously, Elijah was also a sideline reporter for the Jaguars Radio Network and Fox Sports.
Elijah is challenging Mills, a New Smyrna Beach Republican who is under investigation by House Ethics investigation and has faced calls from lawmakers to step down. Mills has refused to resign.
“If someone can give me a good reason, I’d be more than happy to listen to it. But until we can do that, absolutely not, no — I don’t plan to resign. We’re going to seek re-election,” Mills said earlier this month, according to NBC News.
The ongoing investigation is looking at whether Mills profited from defense contracts in Congress as well as allegations of “dating violence” and “sexual misconduct,” Florida Politics previously reported.
An investigatory panel is currently looking at allegations by his Washington girlfriend, Sarah Raviani, that Mills assaulted her in their shared Washington apartment, allegations she later recanted, and from ex-girlfriend Lindsey Langston that Mills threatened to share intimate photos after a breakup which led to a judge issuing a restraining order last year.
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Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics contributed to this report.