Former Volusia County Sheriff Ben Johnson has endorsed Charles Gambaro in the 2026 U.S. House of Representatives election in Florida’s 6th congressional district. A Palm Coast City Council member, Gambaro is challenging incumbent Rep. Randy Fine in the Republican primary.
Florida’s 6th congressional district encompasses all of Flagler and Putnam counties. It also includes portions of St. Johns, Marion, Lake, and Volusia counties.
Gambaro was appointed to the Palm Coast City Council in October 2024, and has decided to run for Congress instead of seeking another term in local office. His term expires in 2026. Outside of politics, Gambaro is a U.S. Army Reserve Brigadier General.
Ben Johnson’s Endorsement
Johnson served as the sheriff of Volusia County from 2001 to 2017. He didn’t run for another term in the 2016 election, passing the baton to Mike Chitwood. Additionally, Johnson served for four years on the Volusia County Council.
“General Gambaro has served his community and his country with honor for over 26 years,” Johnson said in his endorsement. “He is one of us. He has lived in our community for decades, he understands the issues, and he has the track record and courage to drive positive change on issues that are important to our residents. General Gambaro is a highly decorated Combat Veteran who has led our troops in battle and has the unyielding support of law enforcement and first responders. Charlie has my full endorsement, and I encourage our residents and community leaders to support his campaign.”
The Race at a Glance
Four candidates are actively campaigning in the GOP primary for Florida’s 6th congressional district. Incumbent Randy Fine faces Gambaro, as well as fellow challengers Aaron Baker and Dan Bilzerian. Fine has the endorsements of President Donald Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and a long list of sitting members of Congress and the Florida state legislature.
Fine has also touted the endorsements of each of the six sheriffs in the district. Volusia County’s Mike Chitwood rescinded his endorsement of Fine, and Flagler County’s Rick Staly appears to have never actually endorsed Fine for the 2026 election.
Baker says he’s been endorsed by the Constitutional Sheriffs of Florida, AZAPAC, A New Policy PAC, and gubernatorial candidate James Fishback.
Gambaro Responds
Charles Gambaro already has the endorsements of former U.S. Defense Secretary Christopher Miller, State Attorney R.J. Larizza, and the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 4807. The addition of Ben Johnson marks the second local elected official to go on-record with their support for Gambaro’s campaign.
“I am deeply honored to receive the support of Sheriff Ben Johnson, a true legend in Florida law enforcement,” Gambaro said. “He is a true man of character and integrity. His decades of service and leadership are truly an inspiration. Together, we will work to deliver results for our communities… stronger borders, safer neighborhoods, and a government that works for the people, not the special interests.”
Chris Gollon is a Flagler County resident since 2004, as well as a staple of the local independent music scene and avid observer of Central Florida politics, arts, and recreation.
