Businessman Jim Schwartzel wins GOP primary to replace Byron Donalds in House

The 19th District includes Cape Coral and Naples and is regarded as reliably Republican.

By Ben Whedon

Published: August 18, 2026 8:19pm

Florida businessman Jim Schwartzel was projected to win the Republican nomination to replace Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., in Congress on Tuesday evening.

The Associated Press called the race for Schwartzel shortly after 8 p.m. Eastern, at which time he led with 29.2% of the vote and 98% of the vote counted.

The 19th District includes Cape Coral and Naples and is regarded as reliably Republican.

Ten candidates vied for the Republican nomination, with many moving into the district from out of state to compete for the seat. Of the Republican candidates, only Schwartzel was born in the district.

Former Reps. Madison Cawthorn, R-N.C., and Chris Collins, R-N.Y., had sought to mount a political comeback.

Ben Whedon is the Chief Political Correspondent for Just the News. Follow him on X.