Ola Hawatmeh, a philanthropist and entrepreneur, announced her candidacy for Florida's 19th Congressional District, joining 11 other Republicans seeking to replace outgoing Rep. Byron Donalds. She previously worked as a senior policy advisor for Rep. Victoria Spartz, a role that contributed to the election of Mike Johnson as House Speaker and the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill. Hawatmeh will appear at the Sunshine State Showdown, a Republican Party of Florida event held at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, where she plans to argue that her philanthropic work, including the creation of a new YMCA, and her experience with federal grant programs demonstrate her readiness. She said she has contributed more locally in the district than opponents have over their entire careers. Hawatmeh criticized Jim Schwartzel, a fellow candidate, for saying he would fund all community needs without government assistance, stating that such an approach does not reflect an understanding of local requirements. She noted that federal grants for food and education are relatively easy to obtain, but emphasized that federal spending should be targeted. Hawatmeh said that after Hurricane Ian, FEMA distributed small amounts of aid broadly, potentially diverting resources from those with greater need. She described witnessing storm damage in the Venice‑North Port area in 2022 while volunteering in affected neighborhoods. She added that she is the only candidate who is a philanthropist, self‑made, and has a 90‑day plan with proposals already underway. Hawatmeh also highlighted her family background, noting that her father emigrated from Jordan, built businesses in the United States, and now owns commercial plazas. She said the district needs a leader willing to effect change. The race remains competitive, with no endorsement from former President Donald Trump to date, and the primary election is scheduled for the fall.