Butler Campaign Surpasses $200,000 Raised in Just Over One Week Following Campaign Launch
OKEECHOBEE, FL — Conservative outsider Ben Butler announced today that his campaign has now raised more than $200,000 in just over a week since launching his campaign for Florida’s 9th Congressional District, continuing a powerful early show of momentum and grassroots support across the district. None of the amount raised thus far includes any candidate loans.
The fundraising milestone comes on the heels of Butler’s campaign launch endorsement announcements from Congresswoman Kat Cammack, Congressman Greg Steube, four sheriffs in the district, and many others, reflecting growing support from conservatives, business leaders, agriculture advocates, and grassroots Republicans throughout the region.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support we’ve received from across Florida’s 9th District,” said Butler. “The response to this campaign has made one thing very clear: voters are ready for strong conservative leadership that will fight for President Trump’s agenda, defend Florida values, secure the border, support our farmers, and stand up to the failures coming out of Washington.”
The fundraising total was achieved through a broad coalition of supporters and demonstrates significant enthusiasm early in the race.
“In just over a week, we’ve built serious momentum because people understand what’s at stake,” Butler added. “This campaign is about fighting for hard-working families, protecting our communities, and making sure Florida continues leading the nation instead of being dragged backwards by the radical left.”
The Butler campaign said fundraising efforts will continue aggressively heading into the next reporting period as the campaign expands outreach and organization efforts across the district.
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Benjamin "Ben" Butler is a lifelong, ninth-generation Floridian, agricultural leader, businessman, and public servant rooted in the values of faith, hard work, stewardship, and service.
Raised in Central Florida, Ben helped build and operate Butler Oaks Farm, a multi-generational dairy and cattle operation. Through decades of hands-on experience, he managed employees, balanced budgets, navigated complex regulations, and made the real-world decisions necessary to keep a business running and families employed.
Governor DeSantis appointed Ben to the South Florida Water Management District Governing Board in 2019, 2021, and 2024, where he has helped oversee Everglades restoration, flood protection, water supply, and natural resource management across South Florida.
Ben has also served in leadership roles with the Florida Farm Bureau, Florida FFA Foundation, Southeast Milk Inc., and Newtrient. A former Florida FFA State President, Ben has long believed in investing in future generations and strengthening Florida's rural communities.
Ben earned both bachelor's and master's degrees in Animal Science from the University of Florida, with a focus on dairy management, agricultural economics, and natural resource management.
Ben is joined in his commitment to agriculture and youth development by his wife, April, a native Floridian, FSU graduate, and former law enforcement professional who volunteers with 4-H, FFA Alumni, and the South Florida Fair dairy shows. Their daughter Hannah raises registered dairy and beef heifers through FFA and 4-H, and is active in Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Club America at her high school.
Together, the Butler family remains deeply rooted in Florida's Heartland, dedicated to preserving its agricultural heritage, supporting youth leadership, and serving their community.
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With the excitement of the campaign growing, Butler has picked up many endorsements, both federal and local, including:
Congressional:
Kat Cammack – Congresswoman, FL-03
Greg Steube – Congressman, FL-17
City of Okeechobee:
Dowling Watford, Jr. – Mayor
Monica Clark – Vice Mayor
Noel Chandler – Council Member
Bob Jarriel – Council Member
David McAuley – Council Member
Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners:
David Hazellief – Chair, Commissioner
Terry Burroughs – 1st Vice Chair, Commissioner
Bradley Goodbread – 2nd Vice Chair, Commissioner
Frank DeCarlo – Commissioner
Michael Sumner – Commissioner
Highlands County Board of County Commissioners:
Don Elwell – Chair, Commissioner
Chris Campbell – Vice Chair, Commissioner
Arlene Tuck – Commissioner
Scott Kirouac – Commissioner
Kevin Roberts – Commissioner
Sheriffs:
Sheriff Paul Blackman – Highlands County
Sheriff David Hardin – Glades County
Sheriff Noel Stephen – Okeechobee County
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Release Date:
May 27th, 2026
Press Contact:
Derek Dufresne
Derek@ascent-strategic.com
