Fox News guest, Ford O’Connell, runs for Francis Rooney’s congressional seat

Reporter: Morgan Rynor
Published: Updated:
Ford O'Connell. (Credit: Ford For Florida)
Ford O’Connell. (Credit: Ford For Florida)

He is on TV and talk radio, but Fox News political guest, Ford O’Connell, told WINK News on Thursday that he wants to give up that career to get Rep. Francis Rooney’s seat in Congress.

“Obviously, the number one thing they care about is fighting for President Trump,” O’Connell said. “Our current congressman is not doing that.”

O’Connell, 44 years old, points to an answer Rooney gave to a reporter, asking whether President Donald Trump’s conduct with Ukraine is impeachable. Rooney said he was still thinking about it. O’Connell, however, said the “entire impeachment is a sham.” Rooney said he would not seek reelection shortly after his statement.

O’Connell was born in New York and grew up in Texas. He earned his law degree from the University of Virginia. While O’Connell is a member of the Bar in Massachusettes, he does not practice law. The congressional candidate has master’s degrees in journalism and public policy. He now lives in Naples.

Like some of the other Republican candidates in the race to represent the 19th congressional district, O’Connell said he will fight for issues on water quality, the economy and illegal immigration. Yet he expects a tough race because each candidate offers voters unique qualities.

Cindy Banyai, a professor at Florida Gulf Coast University professor, and former Congressional candidate, David Holden, are running on the Democratic ticket. Among the other Republicans running for the congressional seat are Fort Myers Mayor Randy Henderson, State Reps. Dane Eagle and Heather Fitzenhagen.

Despite the strong field, O’Connell emphasized his media experience for Fox News. He said it makes him the most formidable candidate in the “epic dog fight.” He also touts his constant communication with the White House as separating him from his competitors.

“Just because I’m running for Congress,” O’Connell said, “does not mean I stop fighting for President Trump in the media.”

Copyright ©2024 Fort Myers Broadcasting. All rights reserved.

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without prior written consent.