Gus Bilirakis — Republican Candidate for U.S. House in Florida, 2026

Representative Gus Bilirakis opposed President Obama's executive actions on immigration, arguing the president "cannot act unilaterally and refuse to work with Congress." He supported amendments to Department of Homeland Security appropriations to halt these actions. Bilirakis also introduced H.R. 192, the Stop Handouts to Unauthorized Taxpayers (SHUT) Act, requiring legal employment verification for individuals claiming the refundable child tax credit.

“As a second generation Greek American, I have a firsthand understanding of the importance and power of the American dream, as well as the sensitivity and passion surrounding immigration reform. There is no doubt our immigration system is broken, but President Obama cannot act unilaterally and refuse to work with Congress. In the President's own words: ‘That's not how our democracy functions.' - Gus Bilirakis, http://bilirakis.house.gov/issue/immigration, November 20, 2014”

Gus Bilirakis supports market-driven healthcare solutions, advocating for cost transparency to enhance affordability and access. He voted for the American Health Care Act as a step towards reform, emphasizing protections for pre-existing conditions. He has co-authored multiple health policy measures, including those for seniors, pediatric cancer treatments, rare diseases, and oral health literacy, reflecting his commitment to improving the healthcare system.

“With the House passage of the American Health Care Act, we are moving forward with a health care system that lowers costs and increases choices. Like many Americans, I live with a pre-existing condition, as do many of my family members and loved ones. I would not have voted for the bill if I thought protections for those with pre-existing conditions were in jeopardy, as I promised my constituents during three town hall meetings. Today's vote is the beginning of health care reform, not the be-all-end-all, and we cannot allow the perfect to be the enemy of the good. I look forward to continuing work to ensure health care is affordable and accessible for all," said Bilirakis.”

Gus Bilirakis supports domestic energy production and cosponsored legislation like the Keystone Pipeline to lower energy costs and reduce foreign dependence. He voted for the Homeowner Energy Freedom Act and the Don’t Mess With My Home Appliances Act. Bilirakis seeks to modernize infrastructure and protect environmental resources while ensuring these efforts do not compromise economic growth, jobs, or national security. He opposes proposals such as the Green New Deal.

Representative Gus Bilirakis is unapologetically pro-life, stating government should defend the constitutional right to life for unborn babies and their mothers. He consistently voted against abortion access, including the Women’s Health Protection Act (H.R.3755) and the Ensuring Women’s Right to Reproductive Freedom Act (H.R.8297). His record includes supporting measures in 2023 to protect unborn babies and voting to disqualify Planned Parenthood from federal healthcare programs.

““As millions of Americans plan to march upon our nation’s Capitol later this week in support of the sanctity of life, I strongly support their efforts in both words and action,” said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. “Tragically, more than 60 million unborn children have been aborted since Roe v. Wade was enacted more than 50 years ago. The U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Dobbs v. JacksonWomen’s Health Organization is a transformational victory and sets a new precedent for unborn babies’ right to life. The question of abortion is now up to each individual state. Despite this monumental ruling, the work is never over to protect the lives of the unborn. I remain unapologetically pro-life, and this is reflected in my voting record. My colleagues and I are working to ensure government defends Americans’ constitutional rights—and that includes our most fundamental right to LIFE. My constituents can be assured that I will keep fighting to be a voice for the most vulnerable among us and protect the lives of unborn babies and their mothers.” (Congressman Gus Bilirakis, http://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/ahead-national-march-life-bilirakis-earns-pro-life-record)”

Gus Bilirakis supports a robust U.S. foreign policy and strong national defense. He voted against the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act but emphasized the importance of military funding to respond to global threats. Bilirakis introduced the Armenia Security Partnership Act, supported Operation Absolute Resolve, and advanced the Eastern Mediterranean Gateway Act to bolster the region’s strategic role in U.S. foreign policy. He also reintroduced the End the Cyprus Embargo Act to enhance U.S.-Cypriot relations.

“Despite the budgetary and fiscal climate, it is imperative the security and long-term success of the country is not sacrificed through arbitrary cuts to the military's budget. Our country is a beacon of liberty and freedom with interests across the globe, and there is no doubt non-state actors and foreign governments have interests that are hostile to those of the United States. The United States must stand ready and capable to respond to potential threats. (Congressman Gus Bilirakis, statement after voting against National Defense Authorization Act, via http://bilirakis.house.gov/issues/defense)”

Gus Bilirakis has consistently supported federal funding for education programs, including legislation to increase the maximum Pell Grant award and improve the Head Start program. He also voted for legislation to reduce interest rates on federally-subsidized student loans and to return control of public schools to local communities. Additionally, he advocates for increasing Title I and IDEA funding and strengthening Career and Technical Education programs.

Gus Bilirakis voted against the "Bipartisan Safer Communities Act," stating the legislation would infringe upon Second Amendment rights by criminalizing firearm transactions, increasing scrutiny for citizens under 21, and eroding due process protections in red flag laws. He emphasizes addressing the root causes of violence, supporting mental health treatment through the Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act, and improving school safety with the STAND-UP Act.

“"We will not make our communities safer by restricting the rights of law-abiding citizens who wish to exercise their 2nd amendment rights to protect themselves and their families," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. "We must address root causes of violence while enforcing existing laws and prosecuting criminals. We took an important step toward that goal with passage of the Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act earlier this week. This bipartisan bill will help ensure access to quality mental health treatment for children and young adults. Additionally, my STAND-UP Act, which was recently signed into law, will improve school safety by training students and staff on how to identify those who may be at-risk for harming themselves or others, how to anonymously report concerning"”