Introduction

In Florida’s newly redrawn 25th congressional district, the Republican primary has become a flashpoint for controversy. Former Boca Raton mayor Scott Singer, who left office in March 2026, spent nearly $100,000 of taxpayer‑funded money on advertising in New York City to entice businesses and residents to relocate to Boca Raton. As the primary contest with Dan Franzese intensifies, Singer has accused his opponent of being a “political tourist” who moved from New York to Florida solely to run for office.

Public Funding Used for Out‑of‑State Promotion

The most notable expense was a $70,000 billboard campaign in Times Square that ran from July to September 2025. The ad linked to a city website promising lower taxes, concierge services for businesses, and a welcoming environment for new residents. By the end of the year, the campaign generated roughly 2,600 clicks, according to local reporting. The city also allocated nearly $20,000 for a feature in the New York Yankees magazine, further extending the out‑of‑state outreach effort.

City officials defended the spending, describing the ad as “business focused” and intended to raise awareness among CEOs and executives about the financial and lifestyle advantages of relocating to Boca Raton. They emphasized a “discounted ad opportunity” offered during the mayor’s media appearances in the national market.

Carpetbagging Claims and Counter‑Accusations

Against this backdrop, Singer has portrayed Franzese as a carpetbagger, highlighting Franzese’s recent move from New York and his prior unsuccessful political bid. Singer’s statements stress his own deep roots in Boca Raton—over 40 years of residence, marriage, and family life—positioning him as a genuine community representative.

Franzese responded by labeling Singer “shameless,” pointing to Singer’s record on gun control, climate policy, and cultural recognitions as evidence of hypocrisy. Franzese noted that a third of Republicans reportedly would refuse to vote for Singer if he secured the nomination.

Implications for the General Election

The winner of this primary is expected to face incumbent Democrat Jared Moskowitz in a district now identified as a “toss‑up” by a nonpartisan political rating organization. The race therefore carries broader significance for both parties as Florida’s map reshaping creates new battlegrounds.

Conclusion

The primary contest in Florida’s 25th district illustrates the tangled dynamics of public‑funded advertising, accusations of hypocrisy, and the ever‑present question of residency credibility in American politics. As voters weigh the merits of spending taxpayer money to attract out‑of‑state investment against the charge of carpetbagging, the outcome will shape the district’s representation in a pivotal midterm election.