Ben Butler Campaign Tops $100,000 Raised in First 48 Hours, Signaling Major Early Momentum in FL-09 Race

OKEECHOBEE, FL — Republican congressional candidate Ben Butler announced today that his campaign has continued its significant momentum, already raising more than $100,000 in the first 48 hours after launching his campaign for Congress in Florida’s 9th Congressional District.

The massive early haul positions Butler as an immediate force in the race and underscores the growing enthusiasm behind his conservative, America First message.

“Washington is broken because too many politicians go there to play games instead of focusing on achieving real results for the American people,” Butler said. “This campaign is different. We launched with momentum, securing support from Congresswoman Kat Cammack, Congressman Greg Steube, and many local elected leaders who know we are going to win. We launched with energy, and now we’re proving we will have the financial support to win. Floridians are ready for a conservative fighter who will stand with President Trump, secure the border, protect our freedoms, and actually deliver results.”

Derek Dufresne of Ascent Strategic, General Consultant to Ben Butler’s campaign, said the six-figure fundraising milestone was fueled by an overwhelming wave of grassroots support from conservatives, business leaders, and first-time donors across Florida and the country. None of the $100,000 is a personal loan from the candidate.

“Raising over $100,000 in just 48 hours sends a loud message to the political establishment that this campaign is for real,” Butler continued. “People are fed up with empty promises and Republican politicians who talk tough back home but cave in Washington. I’m running to fight, and this incredible outpouring of support shows voters are ready to send a fighter to Congress. Be assured though that this first $100,000 is just the beginning of our campaign warchest.“

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.

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 20th, 2026

Press Contact:

Derek Dufresne

Derek@ascent-strategic.com