TALLAHASSEE, Florida — With the primary elections looming, Rep. Cory Mills finds himself embroiled in controversy and battling negative publicity as he vies to retain his seat in Florida’s 7th District. Despite being under the scrutiny of the House Ethics Committee and facing dwindling support from some GOP colleagues, Mills is banking on an endorsement from former President Donald Trump to carry him through.

Mills, who is under investigation for potentially benefiting from federal contracts and has faced allegations from a former girlfriend regarding threats and misconduct, has staunchly maintained his innocence. At a recent primary debate in New Smyrna Beach, he emphasized his unique position as a thrice-endorsed candidate by Trump, proclaiming, “I’m going to continue to fight for the American people, and that’s not what the swamp wants.”

The congressman's campaign struggles with finance, holding less than $70,000 in his coffers, according to recent federal campaign reports. This financial challenge comes at a time when Republicans, bolstered by a redistricting push from Gov. Ron DeSantis, aim to capture up to four more seats in the state. Trump’s 2024 performance in the district, where he won by over 12 points, gives Mills some hope despite the controversies.

On the Democratic front, the Congressional Campaign Committee has rallied behind Bale Dalton, a military veteran and former chief of staff to Bill Nelson at NASA, eyeing the 7th District as a potential flip.

Mills' primary challengers have not shied away from highlighting his troubles. Ryan Elijah, a former TV anchor leading in fundraising among the challengers, cautioned at the debate about the risks of supporting Mills: “We have a member of Congress who is on the verge of getting kicked out, and that’s what you need to understand.”

Further complicating Mills’ re-election bid are the endorsements his primary opponents have garnered from prominent local figures and fellow GOP members, including Reps. Anna Paulina Luna and Mike Haridopolos, signaling a growing distrust within his own party.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd also publicly criticized Mills, denying current support despite being listed as a supporter due to an endorsement in a previous campaign. This adds to the voices within the GOP calling for new representation.

As the primary approaches, Mills faces not only the challenge of overcoming the ethical allegations but also the task of convincing voters that his endorsement by Trump and his record are enough to merit their trust and votes amid escalating attacks from his rivals.