Incoming Florida Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez has tested positive for the coronavirus.
“After several negative tests, both my wife, Lourdes, and I tested positive for COVID-19 yesterday. We are both feeling good & experiencing no symptoms at this time.” Gimenez, a Florida Republican, said in a tweet Friday evening. “I am extremely grateful for all of the incredible health care workers who are tirelessly dedicated to their patients.”
Gimenez, 66, a former Miami-Dade County mayor, defeated incumbent Debbie Mucarsel-Powell in Florida’s 26th District in a closely watched race.
Gimenez said one of his primary goals in Congress will be to do battle against New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and has already joined up with an emerging “freedom squad” to counter their energy on capitol hill.
More than 270,000 people have died of coronavirus in the United States so far as it continues to rage largely out of control. Gimenez announcements makes him part of a growing list of congressmen and women who have contracted the deadly virus.
Rep. Rick Allen, a Georgia Republican, Rep. Bryan Steil, a Wisconsin Republican, Rep. Susie Lee, a Nevada Democrat, Rep. Joe Courtney, a Connecticut Democrat and Rep. Don Young, an Alaska Republican — and the oldest member of Congress — have all also tested positive in recent days.
Gimenez said he plans to continue new member orientation virtually as he recovers.
