Sydney Gruters wins GOP primary for Florida’s 16th Congressional District
Published Aug. 18, 2026, 7:52 p.m. ET | Updated Aug. 18, 2026
SARASOTA, Fla. — Conservative activist and executive Sydney Gruters secured the Republican nomination in Florida’s 16th Congressional District on Tuesday, leveraging broad institutional support and a high-profile national endorsement to defeat her primary opponents.
“This victory belongs to the people of Southwest Florida,” Gruters said following her win. “It was earned one conversation, one handshake, and one vote at a time. We ran a relentless grassroots campaign, showed up in every corner of this district, and listened to the people we are asking to represent. The voters sent a clear message: They want a proven conservative who understands Southwest Florida and has the experience to deliver results. I will never forget who I work for.”
Gruters, who serves as vice president of advancement for the New College Foundation and previously worked as district director for U.S. Rep. Greg Steube, prevailed over primary challengers …