SWFL.io - Local NewsWINK Digital Team
•8/14/2026
BONITA SPRINGS, Fla. — President Donald Trump has thrown his full support behind a Republican congressional candidate in Southwest Florida.
Trump endorsed Catalina Lauf for Florida's 19th Congressional District on Thursday, calling her an "America First Patriot."
In his endorsement, Trump pointed to Lauf's background as a former appointee at the U.S. Department of Commerce during his first administration.
"As a former Presidential Appointee at the U.S. Department of Commerce in my First Administration, Catalina has proven she has the Courage and Wisdom to deliver strong results for the incredible people of her State and Nation — She has truly been with us from the beginning!" Trump said.
Trump said Lauf would fight to grow the economy, cut taxes and regulations, secure the border and defend the Second Amendment, among other priorities.
"Catalina Lauf has my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Congresswoman from Florida's 19th Congressional District — SHE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!" Trump said.
Lauf responded by tying her run directly to Trump's movement.
"President Trump's FIGHT is what first called me to public service," Lauf said. "I joined his administration because I believed in President Trump's leadership in MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN. I'm running for Congress because the families of Southwest Florida deserve a fighter in Washington who will put them FIRST."
Lauf also made a direct appeal to voters ahead of the primary.
"To the voters of District 19, I'm asking for your vote on Tuesday," Lauf said. "I will never let you down."