Now that former Republican lawmaker Matt Gaetz is no longer in the running to be President-elect Donald Trump's attorney general, all eyes are on who might replace him in Congress after he resigned.

According to the New York Post, President-elect Trump on Monday was quick to endorse a replacement for Gaetz, even before the candidate he mentioned had made an official announcement.

Trump endorsed Jimmy Patronis to fill Gaetz's vacancy. Patronis is Florida's chief financial officer.

What did he say?

The president-elect heaped praise on Patronis and assured voters that he's the right person to represent Florida residents in Congress.

"A fourth generation Floridian from the beautiful Panhandle, and owner of an iconic seafood restaurant, Jimmy has been a wonderful friend to me, and to MAGA," Trump announced on his Truth Social platform.

He added, "As your next Congressman, Jimmy would work tirelessly alongside of me to Grow our Economy, Secure our Border, Stop Migrant Crime, Strengthen our Incredible Military/Vets, Restore American Energy DOMINANCE, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment."

Patronis, 52, is a longtime Trump loyalist and has backed Trump on previous legislative agendas for Florida taxpayers.

The Florida Republican responded to the president-elect's endorsement enthusiastically with a short statement on his X account this week.

Put me to work, Mr. President! @realDonaldTrump I am here to serve. 🫡 https://t.co/5HcxBtJAmk

— Jimmy Patronis (@JimmyPatronis) November 25, 2024

"Put me to work, Mr. President! @realDonaldTrump I am here to serve," Patronis wrote.

Social media reacts

Users across social media reacted positively to Trump's endorsement of Patronis.

"This makes me feel both happy and sad. Jimmy is doing a fantastic job here in Florida and we appreciate all of his hard work. But the opportunity for him to go to Washington is amazing," one X user wrote.

Another X user wrote, "Jimmy Patronis has proven he s a true leader who knows how to serve his state. With President Trump s endorsement, he s ready to bring that same dedication to Congress."

Only time will tell if Patronis ultimately gets the job. Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that a special election to fill Gaetz's seat will happen on Jan. 28. There are several other candidates in the running.