Ben Johnson, who spent more than four decades in Volusia County law enforcement and government, has thrown his support behind Republican primary candidate Charles Gambaro ahead of the August 2026 vote.
Retired Volusia County Sheriff and former County Councilman Ben Johnson announced on April 13, 2026, that he is endorsing Charles Gambaro, a Republican candidate running for Florida’s 6th Congressional District seat. The district’s primary election is scheduled for August 18, 2026.
ENDORSER
Ben Johnson
Retired Volusia County Sheriff — 43 years at Sheriff’s Office, 16 as elected Sheriff. Former County Councilman, 4 years. Total public service: 46+ years.
CANDIDATE
Charles Gambaro
Republican candidate, FL-6 Congressional District. Retired military general, 26+ years of service. Combat veteran.
Johnson’s endorsement
Johnson, who served Volusia County for more than 46 years — including 43 years at the Sheriff’s Office, 16 of which he served as elected sheriff — cited Gambaro’s military background, community ties, and support from law enforcement as his reasons for backing the candidate. In his formal endorsement statement, Johnson said:
“General Gambaro has served his community and his country with honor for over 26 years. He is one of us. He has lived in our community for decades, he understands the issues, and he has the track record and courage to drive positive change on issues that are important to our residents. General Gambaro is a highly decorated Combat Veteran who has led our troops in battle and has the unyielding support of law enforcement and first responders. Charlie has my full endorsement, and I encourage our residents and community leaders to support his campaign.”
— Ben Johnson, Retired Volusia County Sheriff and former County Councilman
Gambaro’s response
Gambaro responded to the endorsement with a statement expressing appreciation for Johnson’s support and outlining several priorities he says he would pursue in Congress:
“I am deeply honored to receive the support of Sheriff Ben Johnson, a true legend in Florida law enforcement. He is a true man of character and integrity. His decades of service and leadership are truly an inspiration. Together, we will work to deliver results for our communities… stronger borders, safer neighborhoods, and a government that works for the people, not the special interests.”
— Charles Gambaro, Republican candidate for Florida’s 6th Congressional District
The race and what’s next
Florida’s 6th Congressional District primary is set for August 18, 2026. The endorsement from Johnson — one of the longest-serving law enforcement officials in Volusia County history — adds to what Gambaro’s campaign describes as growing support among law enforcement leaders and conservatives in the district. No other candidates in the race were named in the announcement.
More information about Charles Gambaro’s campaign is available at VoteForGambaro.com.
