Former U.S. Rep. Madison Cawthorn will appear in a long-form interview with Real Truth Media this week, marking his first extended public remarks since filing paperwork to run for Florida’s 19th Congressional District. Cawthorn, 30, served one term in Congress representing North Carolina from 2021 to 2023 before losing his re-election bid, providing context for his political experience.

When he announced he was running several months ago, Cawthorn said, "After Charlie Kirk’s assassination, I knew that there was really no option. I’ve decided to run for Congress again. I want to make sure the people of Florida have amazing representation in Washington, D.C., because I know exactly what happens in the swamp."

Cawthorn was recently arrested in Florida for failing to appear in traffic court, which he described as a “simple mistake” due to scheduling, and he expressed confidence that the case would be resolved positively.

The former congressman framed his approach to politics as a fight against entrenched influence and outside pressures. “If you want someone who is going to go to Washington, D.C., to be swayed by outside money, just fade off into the swamp… I’m not your guy. But if you want someone who is going to fight for the values that conservatives truly believe in, who is going to pursue morals and ethics… then I’m your guy,” Cawthorn said.

He is expected to address past controversies from his congressional term, including airport firearm incidents, compromising videos, and financial disclosure concerns, during his interview with Real Truth Media.

Cawthorn’s announcement to run follows U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds’ decision to seek the governor’s office in 2026, leaving a safe Republican seat open. While several other Republicans have filed to run, Cawthorn’s national profile ensures the primary will attract attention beyond Southwest Florida.

Other Republicans vying for the 19th Congressional District include former U.S. Representative Chris Collins, former Illinois state senator Jim Oberweis, former congressional candidate Catalina Lauf, Marine veteran Mike Pedersen, and business owner Jim Schwartzel, setting up a competitive GOP primary.

The interview will be featured on Real Truth Media’s new series, After the Call, hosted by Josh Hall, which is set to debut this evening at 5:00 PM Eastern. The program provides a long-form platform for high-profile figures who have faced controversy, public scrutiny, or personal setbacks.