Kevin Steele cashes out of CFO race, will seek re-election to HD 55

Rep. Kevin Steele will seek re-election to his Florida House seat instead of running for Chief Financial Officer.

“After much prayer and reflection with my family, we have made the decision that I will seek re-election to Florida House District 55,” the Dade City Republican said.

In November, Steele filed to challenge Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia for his Cabinet seat. The DataLink founder later loaned $5 million to his own campaign, a move he made after President Donald Trump’s political team encouraged him to run.

But Steele said now he will bow out. He said the personal pressures of a statewide race as a father of four loomed large in his decision. HD 55 is contained entirely within Pasco County.

“While I carefully considered a run for statewide office, it is important to put my family first at this time,” he said. “Being present for them and staying close to home matters most, and I will continue serving the community I am proud to represent with the same dedication and conservative leadership they expect and deserve.”

Two Republicans, Brenton Basinger and Walter Price, had already filed to succeed Steele in the district. It’s unclear how the incumbent’s re-entry into the race will impact the field.

But Steele said he has already conversed with Ingoglia and will support the incumbent’s re-election.

“I have spoken with Blaise Ingoglia and am proud to give him my full and total endorsement. I look forward to working alongside him to keep Florida strong and moving in the right direction,” Steele said.

“Serving the people of District 55 is a privilege, and I remain deeply committed to fighting for our community and delivering the leadership they deserve.”

Ingoglia, who was appointed to his position by Gov. Ron DeSantis in July, has now twice evaded Republican Primary challenges from well-funded opponents. Sen. Joe Gruters effectively abandoned his own run, where he had Trump’s endorsement, when he was elected as Chair of the Republican National Committee

Ingoglia still faces Republicans Frank Collige, who has raised less than $14,000, and Benjamin Horbowy, who has reported $10 in support.

Meanwhile, Ingoglia reported nearly $711,000 in contributions to his campaign through the end of 2025.