The former Senate President from Naples backs a fellow Collier County Republican’s House bid.
Casey Askar has picked up the backing of one of Southwest Florida’s most influential Republicans in his bid for Florida’s 22nd Congressional District.
State Sen. Kathleen Passidomo of Naples, who served as Senate President from 2022 to 2024, is endorsing Askar’s campaign, pointing to his Collier County roots and business record.
“I’m proud to support Casey Askar, Florida’s next Congressman from CD 22,” Passidomo said. “Having lived in Collier County for more than 25 years, Casey will ensure our community is well-represented in Washington. He’s a successful businessman who has created jobs and opportunity for many. He’ll bring the same leadership and problem-solving acumen to tackle the challenges that face our nation.”
Askar, a U.S. Marine veteran and businessman, called the endorsement an honor and credited Passidomo with helping Floridians find economic prosperity and a better quality of life.
“I am honored to have received the endorsement of Senator Kathleen Passidomo, one of Florida’s great legislators who has fought alongside Governor Ron DeSantis to implement the winning America First, Florida First agenda for Floridians,” Askar said.
The nod adds to a growing list of establishment support for Askar, who recently earned endorsements from U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis — the first member of Congress to weigh in on the race — and Collier County Sheriff Kevin Rambosk.
Askar is widely viewed as one of the front-runners in a crowded Republican Primary that also includes Belinda Keiser, in a contest the White House and the National Republican Congressional Committee are watching closely.
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Ed. note: This story was drafted with assistance from AI. Editorial judgment, sourcing, and final review were performed by Peter Schorsch and the Florida Politics editorial team.