**Attorney General James Uthmeier Secures Key Endorsement from RAGA in 2026 Florida Race**
Attorney General James Uthmeier has picked up a significant endorsement in his bid to retain Florida’s top law enforcement position. The Republican Attorneys General Association (RAGA) has officially endorsed Uthmeier for the 2026 election.
RAGA officials praised Uthmeier’s aggressive approach and his willingness to actively engage in criminal cases. According to a statement from RAGA, as Florida’s chief law enforcement officer, Uthmeier’s office has been directly involved in more than 1,000 arrests related to sex crimes against minors and the rescue of nearly 100 missing children.
In addition, he has dismantled numerous organized crime networks, including major human trafficking and drug trafficking rings.
Uthmeier assumed the Attorney General role after Governor Ron DeSantis appointed his predecessor, Ashley Moody, to the U.S. Senate to replace Marco Rubio, who became Secretary of State. DeSantis then appointed Uthmeier to fill the Attorney General’s position.
The RAGA endorsement places Uthmeier ahead in the Republican primary, where he faces competition from Steven Leskovich, a Punta Gorda lawyer and fellow GOP member. The Republican primary is scheduled for August 18, 2026.
There is also speculation that former Republican U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz might enter the race.
Whoever secures the GOP nomination is expected to face a tough challenge in the general election on November 3, 2026. Democrat Jose Javier Rodriguez has already launched his campaign for Attorney General.
RAGA officials remain confident in Uthmeier’s leadership. Kris Kobach, Kansas Attorney General and Chair of RAGA, remarked, “Since his appointment, General Uthmeier has led the Attorney General’s Office with integrity, conviction, and a steadfast commitment to conservative principles. He has been a fantastic partner with RAGA, consistently standing up for the rule of law and the people of Florida.”
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*Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics contributed to this report.*
https://floridapolitics.com/archives/758423-fantastic-partner-republican-attorneys-general-association-endorses-james-uthmeier/