Matt Caldwell

Matt Caldwell, well-known member of the Florida House of Representatives, who serves as chairman of the Florida House Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee and sits on other committees as well, was the winner in what could be called a landslide victory in the Aug. 26 Republican primary for House district 79.

According to latest vote counts, Caldwell took the prize with some 61 percent of the vote against Matt Miller, a GOP challenger, who received 39 percent.

Caldwell’s District 79 serves some of Fort Myers and N. Fort Myers and all of Lehigh Acres.

Caldwell raised about 95 percent more than his opponent with $291,141 in money and in-kind contributions. His challenger, Miller raised some $13,706.

Matt Caldwell is 33 years old and is a real estate appraiser with a home in North Fort Myers. As a state representative his salary is $29,697.

Miller who is 44, lives in nearby Alva and is the owner of several businesses. He once ran for Lee County commissioner in 2012 but was defeated.

“I’m proud to have the support of this district and I am very excited to go back to work in Tallahassee and represent these folks in my district,” he said.

His term in the House runs for two years.

During campaigning, both candidates called for limited government and conservative principles.

Caldwell was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2010, having served two terms, before winning a third term.