Republicans across the country may be quickly familiarizing themselves with new Republican Nation Committee Chair Joe Gruters . But Southwest Florida political leaders have known the Sarasota Republican for years.

U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan years ago hired Gruters as a staffer for his 2006 campaign for Congress, a race the Longboat Key Republican ultimately won by just 369 votes . Gruters would ultimately serve as Campaign Treasurer and later Campaign Manager for Buchanan.

Years later, Buchanan serves as Co-Chair of Florida’s congressional delegation and Vice Chait of the House Ways and Means Committee. And his one-time mentee runs the RNC.

“Joe Gruters has been a tireless champion for our party and for President ( Donald ) Trump ,” Buchanan said. “His track record of winning t

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