Who Is Running in Florida Congressional District 12th in 2026?
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Gus Bilirakis
(Incumbent)Economy
HighGus Bilirakis supports the REPAIR Act, which aims to protect independent auto repair shops and preserve jobs within the automotive aftermarket. He highlights the sector's role as an essential economic engine, advocating for policies that prevent price increases and maintain consumer choice. Bilirakis has also emphasized concerns about labor force participation rates and joined the Congressional Manufacturing Caucus to improve the economy.
Immigration
HighRepresentative 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.
Healthcare
HighGus 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.
Democratic Candidate
No Democratic candidate has been confirmed for this race yet. Check back after the primary.
| Issue | Gus Bilirakis |
|---|---|
| Economy | Gus Bilirakis supports the REPAIR Act, which aims to protect independent auto repair shops and preserve jobs within the automotive aftermarket. He highlights the sector's role as an essential economic engine, advocating for policies that prevent price increases and maintain consumer choice. Bilirakis has also emphasized concerns about labor force participation rates and joined the Congressional Manufacturing Caucus to improve the economy. High |
| Immigration | 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. High |
| Healthcare | 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. High |
| Climate & Energy | 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. Medium |
| Abortion & Reproductive Rights | 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. High |
| Foreign Policy | 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. High |
| Education | 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. Low |
| Gun Policy | 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. High |
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